Perceptions of Caregiving by Family Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia in Iran: A Qualitative Study

The concept of caring appraisal, which includes positive and negative aspects of care, has been considered as one of the key concepts in caregivers’ studies and is affected by the knowledge, attitudes, values, beliefs, and social norms in their society. In this respect, the perception of family caregivers’ can be studied from a cultural perspective. The aim of the present study was to explore the self-appraisal concept of caring based on the experience of family caregivers of older adults with dementia in Iran. In this qualitative study, data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Twelve participants (family caregivers of elderly with dementia) were interviewed between January and September 2016. The transcribed texts were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis recommended by Graneheim and Lundman (2004). Six main categories were extrapolated: “Perceived burden,” “Satisfaction with care,” “Personal growth,” “Caregiving gains,” “Philosophy of care” and “Loss and threat.” According to the findings, the family caregivers’ appraisal of their care not only included negative aspects, but also covered a number of positive aspects, which in them the cultural and social factors prevailing in Iranian society played a significant role.