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Losing function, staying connected: family dynamics in provision of care for people with dementia
- Authors:
- PODGORSKI Carol, KING Deborah A.
- Journal article citation:
- Generations, 33(1), Spring 2009, pp.24-29. Published online.
- Publisher:
- American Society on Aging
As the symptoms and care needs of the person with the condition change throughout the course of dementia, family dynamics manifest themselves and are affected in a number of ways. It is during the early and middle stages that families often realize that they can no longer care for their family member without assistance, and some families recognize the need for support for themselves as well. Examples of dilemmas and controversies are given and illustrated with case studies. Despite the gaps in understanding of family relationships across the long course of dementia, it is clear that families demonstrate strong bonds of attachment and a high degree of resilience as they cope with this devastating condition. It appears that the strength of family ties prior to the onset of dementia and the family member’s motivation for providing care are two of the most powerful predictors of outcomes for both the person with dementia and the caregiver.