Adaptation of Elderly Relatives with Parkinson's Disease: Transition process

Abstract

We described and interpreted the transition to the role of caregiver of elderly relatives with Parkinson's disease in the light of the Transitions Theory. We used an exploratory method of qualitative approach, and conducted the study with twenty caregivers of elderly relatives with Parkinson's disease. The themes found were as follows: awareness and recognition of Parkinson's disease in the family; engaging with the process of care; becoming a family caregiver; realizing the significant changes and differences in lifestyle; events and major issues resulting from adaption to the role. We found that the transition from relative to the role of family caregiver begins with awareness of the first symptoms and with the diagnosis and involves changes by way of special care.