Potential caregiving practices in a chronic situation of alzheimer’s

scenes of thecare provided by the male spouse

Abstract

This study presents the experience of an aged woman who has had Alzheimer’s for 7 years and whose main caregiver is the husband. Based on the couple’s life partnership and caregiving bonds, we tried to emphasize the importance of the attitudes, behaviors and feelings associated with caregiving. Thus, our aim was to observe the care provided by a male spouse to his aged woman with Alzheimer’s, and to identify potential caregiving practices in such a relationship. This study used a comprehensive, life story approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observation. The result of the analysis is presented in an analytical-descriptive diagram, which describes the husband’s actions and attitudes in caring for his wife. This diagram enabled an understanding of the intense effort made by the husband to seek, provide and manage the care of his wife. It evidenced an affectionate and laborious organization for the maintenance of care “in and for” her life. This caring aspect in their marriage has been gradually built on the basis of mutual respect, reciprocity and commitment towards each other. Thus, we found that the potential care provided by the male spouse is particularized by the time and space of conjugal life and along the illness trajectory. This understanding allows us to highlight the fact that the family needs good healthcare services, especially by nurses. The latter should provide lasting care and engage in the family experience of caregiving, mobilizing resources to assist and support them with what they need.