Family Resilience and Ambiguous Loss in Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Chan Athena Chung Yin, Perkins Cade, Garcia Lizbeth, Lyons Sophia, Hernandez Frank, Singer Jonathan
Primary Institution: Texas Tech University
Hypothesis
Resilience may buffer the distress from ambiguous loss in the family context of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Conclusion
The study found that resilience and ambiguous loss coexist among individuals with dementia and their families, highlighting the need for culturally-tailored family-based practices.
Supporting Evidence
- The study synthesized family processes of ambiguous losses and resilience in the context of dementia.
- Three themes of resilience emerged: belief systems, organizational processes, and communication/problem-solving.
- Two themes of ambiguous loss were identified: physical and emotional.
Takeaway
When family members have dementia, it can be really confusing and sad, but some families find ways to be strong and support each other.
Methodology
This meta-synthesis analyzed qualitative studies published after 1990, focusing on family processes related to ambiguous loss and resilience.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on qualitative data, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Seventy-two articles from 17 countries were included.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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