“Slowly but Steadily, You’re Running Out of Steam”: Aging Parents’ Caregiving Experiences Through Photovoice

Martin Nagl-Cupal (), Marlene Werner, Daniela Haselmayer and Thomas Falkenstein
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Martin Nagl-Cupal: Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria
Marlene Werner: Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria
Daniela Haselmayer: Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria
Thomas Falkenstein: Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 8, 1-19

Abstract: Aging parents caring for adult children with disabilities or other care needs face significant challenges and health-related issues over extended periods. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of aging parents with caregiving responsibilities. This qualitative participatory study followed the research process of a photovoice study. Thirteen parents, aged 51 to 76 years, of adult children with care needs, aged 20 to 49 years, participated in this study. The parents captured photographs depicting their daily lives which were contextualized and coded during group discussions. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and reviewed collaboratively with the participants. Six key themes emerged in the data analysis. 1. mastering complexity, 2. being an expert and advocate, 3. balancing autonomy and care, 4. care as a lifelong journey, 5. standing on the margins of society, and 6. worrying about the future. This study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and coordinated support systems that ensure the well-being of aging caregivers while addressing the evolving needs of their adult children.

Keywords: older adults; family caregivers; qualitative research; photovoice; participatory research; family health; persons with disabilities (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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