Spousal Caregiving in Community Settings in Canada: Implications for Nursing Professionals

Abstract

Objective: Spousal caregivers report significantly more health effects and psychological consequences than caregivers of aging parents. Traditional approaches to assist these caregivers often include lifestyle approaches with a lack of health promotion initiatives. Consequently, alternative approaches to facilitate the adaptation to the social context of spousal caregivers’ experiences are needed. Method: This article systematically reviewed literature on spousal caregiving in Canada using a health promotion approach. Nine peer reviewed articles were identified from the health and social care literature and critically analyzed for relevant themes. Results: Gender, social support, health care, and income emerged as themes in the literature published to date. Discussion: The article concludes with directions for future research in Canada and suggested solutions for family nursing practice.