Year: 2022
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Informal caregivers (CGs) often fail to recognize or express a need for informal caregiver counseling (ICC) but ICC is an essential but relatively rarely used support service for CGs. OBJECTIVE: Our aim is to identify predictors of CGs' need for ICC. Stirling et al.'s need model, which includes three needs (expressed, felt, and normative), serves as a theoretical basis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Analyses are based on cross-sectional data (n = 958) from the "Benefits of being a caregiver" study. Predictors of the need to use ICC were analyzed with binary logistic regression. A sensitivity analysis using multiple linear regression was performed for the metric value of normative needs. RESULTS: We found that 6.8% of CGs currently or have recently used ICC. This expressed need was related to higher education and higher effort in instrumental activities; 24.1% of CGs reported an intention to use ICC in the future. This felt need was related to male gender, lower care level, more problem-focused coping, and a desire for more informal help. Objective need for ICC (normative need), which was related to a higher burden of care, less experienced benefits, and negative relationship quality, was reported by 21.4% of CGs. According to a sensitivity analysis, higher education, a desire for informal help, and living in separate households also predicted a normative need for counseling. DISCUSSION: Current utilization is significantly lower than the subjectively perceived and objectively existing need for ICC. The identified predictors provide initial strategies for motivating more CGs to use ICC.
Language: English
Topic: Nursing care and research
Subfield: Pharmacy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,990
OpenAlex ID: W4293199830