To explore strategies on facilitating caregivers of people with dementia to connect with community resources

Abstract

This research examines the challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with cognitive impairment and analyzes their strategies for utilizing community resources effectively. The study focuses on understanding the difficulties encountered by caregivers and gaining insights into their coping strategies and resource utilization practices. The research investigates gender differences in accessing community resources and explores the impact of caregiving duration on resource utilization. Findings reveal that women caregivers demonstrate a proactive approach in seeking and utilizing community resources, while caregiving experience positively influences resource utilization. The study highlights the importance of tailored support and education programs for male caregivers, empowering them in navigating available resources. It emphasizes the need for fostering peer support networks and implementing gender-inclusive outreach strategies to enhance resource access and support for all caregivers. Recommendations are provided for organizations and communities to provide comprehensive and easily accessible information about available resources. Policymakers are urged to address gender stereotypes and promote gender equality in caregiving, ensuring equitable access to community resources through financial assistance, information provision, and respite care. The research acknowledges its limitations, such as the exclusion of interviews with dementia caregivers and reliance on self-reported data. Future research is encouraged to include a more diverse sample and explore cultural, contextual, and systemic factors affecting resource access for caregivers. In conclusion, this research contributes valuable insights into the challenges faced by caregivers and their strategies for utilizing community resources. By considering these findings within the social ecological framework, stakeholders can work towards creating a supportive ecosystem that enables caregivers to access and utilize resources effectively, 23 thereby improving the well-being and quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairment and their caregivers.