Experiences of ‘Indirect’ Illness in Family Caregivers of Chronically Ill and Older Adults: A Qualitative Study

Antonio Bonacaro, Chiara Cosentino, Concetta Collaro, Maria Chiara Gandini, Rachele La Sala, Giovanna Artioli () and Victoria Cervantes Camacho
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Antonio Bonacaro: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
Chiara Cosentino: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
Concetta Collaro: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
Maria Chiara Gandini: Social and Health Company, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda Cà Granda, 20162 Milan, Italy
Rachele La Sala: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
Giovanna Artioli: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
Victoria Cervantes Camacho: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 2, 1-14

Abstract: The care of chronically ill and older adults affects families in terms of physical, emotional, relational, and social impact; the functioning of the family; and an alteration in family dynamics. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of family caregivers of older patients in depth. A qualitative study was conducted, consisting of twenty-four narrative interviews with caregivers of chronically ill and older adults, consisting of twenty-three women and one man. The caregivers were all close relatives of the patients. The main results were as follows: (i) caregiving is predominantly performed by females; (ii) the caregiver experiences an ‘indirect’ illness; (iii) the family undergoes changes in roles, responsibilities, and relationships; (iv) support needs emerge, especially those of a social, family, work, and economic nature; and (v) resources are also activated, linked to the presence or absence of self-care. Illnesses directly impact the primary caregiver, but they also have repercussions on the entire family unit, which may activate coping strategies or lead to breakdown. It is crucial to accurately monitor the new family dynamics in order to find suitable solutions to support the family of chronically ill and older patients, underscoring the importance of work in this area.

Keywords: family caregiver; caregiver–patient relationship; older adult; ‘indirect’ illness experience; chronic illness; caregiver support; qualitative research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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