CAREGIVING FOR AGING PARENTS - AN EXPLORATORY-STUDY OF ATTITUDES AND OPINIONS

The purpose of this study was to elicit attitudes and opinions about caregiving to elderly parents. Three focus groups were conducted. Each group consisted of 6 or 7 middle-aged adults. The discussions were recorded and content analysed Several major themes emerged in each group, with considerable conceptual overlap in themes across groups. All groups showed an understanding of potential difficulties in providing care. Lack of information about services available, the impact on the family providing accommodation and care, and the need to maintain independence were common themes. Daughters were perceived as more appropriate caregivers than sons. This preliminary information will be useful in the development of measures of attitudes to caregiving of elderly parents.