Perceived Social Support of Family Caregivers for People with Dementia: Concept Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Most of the currently used concepts and measurements of social support have been relevant for generalpopulation. The main purpose of this study is to conduct the concept analysis of perceived social support(PSS) offamily caregivers for people with dementia. Methods: This study adopted the Walker and Avant concept analysismethodology. Results: Findings from this concept analysis suggested four defining attributes of PSS of familycaregivers for people with dementia: 1) PSS is help or assistance that family caregivers perceive as available whenneeded; 2) PSS is offered through socio-ecological structure; 3) PSS has a specific function to meet the needs offamily caregivers; and 4) PSS includes quality aspects where family caregivers choose, use, or evaluate it. Borrowingfrom the socio-ecological model, this study proposed the structural aspects of PSS. This study also identifiedfunctional aspects of PSS, such as emotional support, informational support, appraisal support, and practicalsupport. Finally, this study assessed quality aspects of PSS, such as satisfaction, timeliness, usefulness,accessibility, and coordination. Conclusion: Focusing on family caregivers for people with dementia, we proposeda new model of PSS. The present study helped refine and clarify the concept of PSS of family caregivers for peoplewith dementia. The results of this study may also contribute to promoting the development of more effectiveinstruments for the concept.