Caregivers of relatives with dementia:: experiences encompassing social support and bereavement

In this study, 30 caregivers were interviewed less than 6 months after the death of a family member with dementia. The study describes the caregivers' experiences of bereavement and social support in two stages: during the caregiving period and following the death. Furthermore, a link between the two stages is described. In fact, a central dynamic in caregiver bereavement seems to be the support experienced, as well as the possibility of having continued support from family and/or friends. Caregivers who reported more positive appraisals during the caregiving period were likely to feel relieved after the death of a relative. They also tended to be more satisfied with their social support.