Using Focus Groups to Assess Pre— and Post-Placement Needs for Caregivers of Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract

Abstract Placing a relative who has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia into an assisted living facility is one of the most stressful events a caregiver will experience. In this study, focus groups were used as a means for Alzheimer's caregivers (N = 20) to discuss pre— and postplacement needs. Alzheimer's caregivers openly discussed their experiences and recounted their successes, coping strategies, and overcoming of barriers. Focus group dialogue generated three main areas of discussion that included (1) choosing a facility, (2) advice for the first day of placement, and (3) ongoing issues and concerns of post-placement. From the information shared by caregivers, practical solutions indicated the value of incorporating current and former caregivers into a support network or mentor program for new caregivers coping with placement decisions.