The Physical, Psychological, and Social Challenges of Family Caregiving for People with Spinal Cord Injuries
Chen and Boore’s (2009) study examines the experience of family caregivers who take care of people with spinal cord injuries in Taipei, Taiwan. The authors used a qualitative methodology to collect data from six families. The article begins by discussing the importance of caregiving in Taiwanese culture and how this is related to filial piety. The authors then go on to describe the caregivers’ experiences in terms of the physical, psychological, and social challenges they face.
One of the main themes that emerged from the data was the physical burden of caregiving. Caregivers described having to lift their relative out of bed, help them to the bathroom, and provide them with constant physical support. They also spoke about how they felt exhausted from the physical demands of the job and how this had an impact on their own health. In addition to the physical challenges, caregivers also spoke about the emotional difficulties they faced. They described feeling frustrated, helpless, and angry at times. Some caregivers also spoke about how they felt guilty or ashamed because they could not do more for their relative.
The final theme that emerged from the data was the social isolation that caregivers often felt. Many of them spoke about how their social life had shrunk since taking on the role of caregiver. They said that they found it difficult to meet new people or to maintain relationships with old friends. This was often because they felt like they could not leave their relative alone or because they were too busy with caregiving tasks.
Overall, Chen and Boore’s (2009) study provides valuable insights into the experiences of family caregivers who take care of people with spinal cord injuries. The study highlights the physical, psychological, and social challenges that caregivers face on a daily basis. It also highlights how these challenges can impact caregivers’ own health and wellbeing. References
Chen, H., & Boore, J. R. (2009). Living with a relative who has a spinal cord injury: A qualitative study of Taiwanese family caregivers. Rehabilitation Nursing, 34(1), 16-23.
FAQ
Chen and Boore's article helps us understand what it is like to live with a relative who has a spinal cord injury by providing insight into the challenges that family members face. The article discusses common issues such as communication, depression, and sexual function, and offers practical advice for dealing with these challenges.
Some of the challenges that family members face when caring for someone with a spinal cord injury include communication difficulties, depression, and sexual dysfunction.
Chen and Boore offer practical advice for dealing with common issues such as communication, depression, and sexual function. They also suggest ways to maintain physical and emotional health while providing care to someone with a spinal cord injury.
Rehabilitation can help people adjust to living with a spinal cord injury by teaching them new skills and helping them regain some level of independence.
There are some positive aspects to living with a relative who has a spinal cord injury, despite the challenges. These positive aspects include gaining new insights into the human experience, developing greater patience and compassion, and learning how to better cope with adversity.
There are many resources available to families coping with a relative who has a spinal cord injury. These resources include support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs.
There are many positive aspects to living with a relative who has a spinal cord injury, despite the challenges. These positive aspects include the opportunity to learn new skills, to develop closer relationships with other family members, and to gain a greater appreciation for life.
