Citation

Band-Winterstein T, Avieli H. J. Nurs. Scholarsh. 2019; 51(4): 368-379.

Affiliation

Lecturer, Department of Criminology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing)

DOI

10.1111/jnu.12485

PMID

31173457

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to differentiate between the lived experience of two groups of women caregiving for a partner with dementia. One group was coping with lifelong intimate partner violence (IPV) and dementia-related violence (Group 1); the other group was coping with dementia-related violence only (Group 2).

DESIGN: An interpretive phenomenological analysis perspective was used. Data collection was performed through in-depth, semistructured interviews with eight female spouses of men with dementia from each of the two above-mentioned groups, followed by a content analysis.

FINDINGS: Comparing the narratives of the aging women revealed their different experiences over several dimensions: (a) the identification of violence as a symptom of dementia; (b) the use of past couplehood memories; (c) feelings over time; (d) willingness to care for the partner with dementia; and (e) a prospective view of life.

CONCLUSIONS: The complexities of being old and having to cope with caregiving responsibilities for a spouse with dementia, accompanied by violent behaviors, emphasize the significance of the couple's past relationship. This notion should be taken into account in practical interventions. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: As part of the aging process, there is an increase in people who are engaged in dementia-related violence. Nurses' education and practice should focus on the dynamics of dyads coping with violence and identify the particular needs of the caregiver spouse in this context.

© 2019 Sigma Theta Tau International.

Language: en

Keywords

Intimate partner violence; care giving; dementia; qualitative analysis