scholarly journals Patterns of individual coping, engagement with social supports and use of formal services among a five-country sample of resilient youth

2015 ◽  
Vol 2 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Ungar ◽  
L. Theron ◽  
L. Liebenberg ◽  
Guo-Xiu Tian ◽  
A. Restrepo ◽  
...  

Background.Although resilience among victims of child abuse is commonly understood as a process of interaction between individuals and their environments, there have been very few studies of how children's individual coping strategies, social supports and formal services combine to promote well-being.Method.For this study, we conducted a multi-phase analysis of a qualitative dataset of 608 interviews with young people from five countries using grounded theory strategies to build a substantive theory of young people's service and support use patterns. We started with an analysis of ten interviews (two from each country) and then compared these findings to patterns found in each country's full dataset.Results.The substantive theory that emerged explains young people's transience between individual coping strategies (cognitive and behavioral), reliance on social supports (family members, peers and teachers), and engagement with formal service providers whose roles are to provide interventions and case management. Young people's patterns of navigation were shown to be contingent upon the individual's risk exposure, his or her individual capacity to cope, and the quality of the formal and informal supports and services that are available and accessible.Conclusion.Differing amounts of formal resources in low-, middle- and high-income countries influence patterns of service use. Implications for better coordination between formal mental health services and social supports are discussed.

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 638-639
Author(s):  
Karen Roberto ◽  
Jyoti Savla ◽  
Steven Zarit

Abstract The daily lives of family caregivers of persons with dementia (PwD) often require that they manage multiple competing demands in a context of unpredictability. Memory and behavior changes associated with dementia can cause PwD to act in random and irrational ways that create stress and influence all aspects of caregivers’ everyday life. Supportive others, including informal helpers and formal service professionals, should provide relief to primary caregivers; however, help may not alleviate caregiver stress and can sometimes compound the burden of care. This symposium draws on daily diary surveys and face-to-face interviews to focus on four aspects of managing everyday care of PwD among family caregivers in rural areas. Brandy Renee McCann explores how caregivers’ vigilance on behalf of PwD care quality interacts with service use. Karen Roberto examines the ways in which caregivers manage PwD resistance to help, including their use of forceful care strategies. Rosemary Blieszner focuses on competing caregiver roles and demands that may contribute to or alleviate caregiver stress. Tina Savla addresses the unexpected, and often hidden, challenges involved in using formal services. Collectively, the four presentations provide in-depth insight into the complicated daily lives of families coping with dementia and the ways in which they meet the demands of full-time caregiving under often difficult and challenging circumstances. Discussant Steve Zarit considers the efficacy of these management strategies for various aspects of everyday care and offers suggestions for future research and person-centered programs and interventions to reduce health disparities among caregivers in rural areas.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S674-S674
Author(s):  
Tamar E Shovali ◽  
Kerstin G Emerson

Abstract Nearly three million grandparents in the US serve as primary caregivers for their grandchildren. Little research on formal service use and grandfamilies exists for Black and Hispanic populations. To begin to address this gap we conducted exploratory analyses using nationally representative estimates of characteristics and service accessibility of noninstitutionalized children living with grandparents from the 2013 National Survey of Children in Nonparental Care. Our goal was to understand differences in service use as a function of grandfamily race/ethnicity. We specifically explored grandparents’ formal service count, financial services received, confidence in obtaining/using community services, and level of role preparation by race/ethnicity. We calculated descriptive statistics for these service variables for grandparents raising Hispanic, White, Black, and Other identified grandchildren (N = 892). On average, there was a minimal range for the number of formal services used (M range = 5.26 – 5.84, possible = 0 – 10 higher equals more services used), reported number of financial services (M range = 0.71 - 0.78, possible = 0 – 3 higher equals more financial services received), and confidence obtaining/using services (M range = 7.4—7.9, possible = 1 – 9 higher equal more confidence). Most prepared to take on the caregiving role were grandparents of White children (55%) followed by Black (21.6%), Other (12.3%), and Hispanic (11.1%) indicating that although grandparents in this sample report being confident and able to access formal services, grandparents of White children report being feeling more prepared to take on caregiving than grandparents of Black, Hispanic, and Other combined.


2022 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 31-32
Author(s):  
Mohammad Hamiduzzaman ◽  
Stacy Torres ◽  
Amber JoAnn Fletcher ◽  
M Rezaul Islam ◽  
Jennene Greenhill

Relationships are multidimensional, and we know little about the facets of relationships in the way elderly patients’ with multimorbidity utilise homecare and health services. Gerontology literatures emphasize the importance of place of care, inequalities, availability of health services and affordability. However, the diversity of relationships and associated dependency in elderly care remain underassessed. A qualitative study involving a demographic survey and interviews was conducted to explore relationship experiences of elderly women with multimorbidity in homecare and health services utilization. Civil Surgeon of Sylhet District in Bangladesh was contacted to recruit participants for the study, and this resulted in 33 interviews [11 staff and 22 elderly women with multimorbidity]. Three domains of Axel Honneth’s Theory of Recognition and Misrecognition [i.e. intimate, community and legal relationships] were used to underpin the study findings. Data was analysed using critical thematic discourse method. Four themes were emerged: nature of caregiving involved; intimate affairs [marital marginalization, and parent-children-in law dynamics]; alienation in peer-relationships and neighbourhood [siblings’ overlook, neighbourhood challenges, and gender inequality in interactions]; and legal connections [ignorance of rights, and missed communication]. A marginalization in family relationships, together with poor peer supports and a misrecognition from service providers, resulted in a lack of care for elderly women with multimorbidity. Understanding the complexities of elderly women’s relationships may assist in policy making with better attention to their health and well-being support needs. Staff training on building relationships, and counselling services for family and relatives are essential to improve the quality of care for the women.  


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 987-987
Author(s):  
Shiau-Fang Chao ◽  
Chen-Wei Hsiang ◽  
Kuan-Ming Chen ◽  
Ya-Mei Chen ◽  
Ji-Lung Hsieh ◽  
...  

Abstract Elder maltreatment is a serious problem endangering physical, emotional, and material well-being of older persons, especially those with physical and cognitive impairment. However, detecting the incident of elder maltreatment is difficult and its prevalence has been seriously underestimated. This study explores how LTC use relates to elder maltreatment report, using government LTC service records in Taiwan. A total of 88,633 reported cases in adult protection system in 2019 were merged with 443,952 valid cases in LTC service system. Descriptive statistics were firstly performed to examine the proportion and characteristics of repeated cases in both systems. Linear probability modeling was then used for analyses. 1. In 2019, 3,413 elder maltreatment clients can be identified in LTC service system, accounting for 27.3% of the elder maltreatment cases. 2. Older persons who used LTC service first and being reported as elder maltreatment cases later had a higher prevalence of being discovered by social workers and care attendants. 3. These group of clients also had higher proportion of being reported as neglected by others, abandonment, and self-neglected. 4. Characteristics in LTC service system, such as being older, low severity of disability, high cognitive impairments, low income status, and with a LTC service use record, were related to high probability of being detected with elder maltreatment problems. Characteristics in LTC service system could be effective indicators in discovering potentially abusive situations of disabled older persons. Training and education are essential for LTC service providers to enhance their literacy and ability of assessing elder maltreatment.


1998 ◽  
Vol 46 (3) ◽  
pp. 247-266 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tracy L. Dietz ◽  
Robert John ◽  
Lonnie C. Roy

This study investigates service use by a sample of 2,135 Hispanic elderly in order to address the issue of the homogeneity or heterogeneity within the older Hispanic population as revealed by the use of formal services. Factor analysis revealed a high degree of homogeneity in the patterns of formal service use among the four Hispanic groups in this study that follows three latent, but distinct, patterns of behavior: the use of federal entitlement programs, in-home services, and senior center services. Although the patterns of service use reflect substantial homogeneity among the Hispanics in this sample, there is a high degree of heterogeneity in the level of service use. Overall, service use was systematically lower among “Other” Hispanic elders and systematically higher among Puerto Rican elders, with somewhat more erratic use among Cuban American and Mexican American elders. Controlling for between-group differences in socio-demographic characteristics did little to reduce relatively systematic between-group differences in levels of service use.


Gerontology ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Meng Huo ◽  
Yee To Ng ◽  
Kira S. Birditt ◽  
Karen L. Fingerman

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Scholars have proposed that empathy is a key feature of strong social ties, but less is known about the role empathy plays when tensions arise. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> We examined whether older adults’ empathy was associated with (a) coping strategies for interpersonal tensions, and (b) mood when there were tensions throughout the day. We also explored whether coping strategies explained the potential buffering effect of empathy on older adults’ momentary mood. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Older adults (<i>N</i> = 302) from the Daily Experiences and Well-Being Study completed a baseline survey on empathy and coping strategies. They also completed ecological momentary assessments every 3 hours each day for 5–6 days, which included questions about interpersonal tensions and mood. This study considered tensions with close partners (e.g., family and friends) and with non-close partners (e.g., acquaintances and service providers). <b><i>Results:</i></b> In the face of interpersonal tensions, more empathic older adults reported using more constructive and less destructive coping strategies than less empathic older adults, regardless of their closeness to social partners. Being more empathic also buffered older adults’ mood when tensions occurred with close partners, but this buffering effect was not mediated by older adults’ general preference for coping strategies. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> This study advances our understanding of empathy and interpersonal tensions in later life, with a focus on daily experiences.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S742-S742
Author(s):  
Kelly A Williams ◽  
Emily Dakin

Abstract Older sexual and gender minority adults in rural communities face challenges in accessing formal health, mental health, and long-term care services (Butler, 2017; Koch & Knutson, 2016; Stein et al., 2010). Formal service providers in rural Southern Appalachia are more likely to have conservative values that are closely linked to their religious beliefs (Keefe, 2005). Some may be opposed to gender non-conformity and same-sex relationships or marriage, making it wise for LGBT older adults in rural contexts to carefully select formal service providers and settings (Willging et al., 2006). Barriers to accessing formal services for LGBT older adults residing in rural contexts include few LGBT-inclusive service providers and facilities, transportation, cost, and health insurance (Butler, 2017). When faced with the prospect of long-term care, older LGBT adults are more likely to conceal their sexual or gender identity due to fears of being mistreated (Brotman et al., 2003). This session will present results of a qualitative study examining experiences, concerns, and recommendations regarding formal services among 11 LGBT older adults residing in rural southern Appalachia. Several of the participants described experiencing discrimination from local service providers. A number of participants were fearful about the perceived lack of LGBT-inclusive services in the area and expressed that they would consider leaving the area if their own or their partner’s health declined. Many participants expressed the need for local provider education about the needs of LGBT older adults. The presenters will discuss the implications for research and for health, social, and long-term care services.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S888-S888
Author(s):  
Emily K Hoyt ◽  
Karen A Roberto ◽  
Jyoti Savla

Abstract According to a 2018 AARP study, 42% of unpaid caregivers experience loneliness. While findings across multiple studies suggest that caregivers experience loneliness either because they lack intimacy in close relationships (i.e., emotional loneliness) or they feel disconnected from their social network (i.e., social loneliness), little is known about how aspects of dementia caregiving influence loneliness, particularly among rural caregivers. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between in-home service use and caregivers experience with both types of loneliness. Eighty-eight co-residing dementia caregivers in rural Appalachia (Mean Age = 68 years; 91% White; 58% Spouses) completed telephone interviews that included questions about their use of formal services and perceptions of emotional and social loneliness. More than half (58%) of the caregivers accessed 1 to 4 formal services. Regression models revealed that caregivers who experienced greater social loneliness were more likely to access personal care services (p=0.013) and respite services (p=0.004) compared to caregivers who experienced less social loneliness. Further, caregivers who experienced greater emotional loneliness were also more likely to access personal care (p=0.028) and respite (p=0.039) services compared to caregivers who experienced lower emotional loneliness. These associations remained robust even after controlling for relationship to the PwD (spouse vs. non-spouse). Findings suggest that beyond assisting with the care of the PwD, the use of formal services may help family caregivers manage loneliness and relieve social isolation. Discussion will focus on the importance of service accessibility and use for the health and psychological well-being of rural family caregivers.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 639-639
Author(s):  
Brandy Renee McCann ◽  
Karen Roberto ◽  
Rosemary Blieszner ◽  
Tina Savla ◽  
Emily Hoyt ◽  
...  

Abstract A demanding aspect of caregiving for a relative with dementia is need for constant vigilance of their behavior and well-being. Vigilance is associated with higher quality of care, but can take a toll on caregivers who have few opportunities for respite. Home- and community-based services have the potential to offer caregivers relief from constant vigilance. Using in-depth interviews with 30 rural caregivers, we found that service use did not necessarily provide relief from constant vigilance. Caregivers typically needed to monitor aspects of home- and community-based services and care facilities such as scheduling and quality of care from CNAs. In contrast, some caregivers found respite from constant vigilance when they used formal services—typically in extreme situations such as when a husband with dementia became violent and moved temporarily to a long-term care facility. Findings connect caregiver needs and concerns related to vigilance with availability, quality, and use of formal services.


2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 252-258 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hsiangting(Shatina) Chen

This research note incorporates stress process theory to explore what stress-coping strategies have been adopted by business travelers. The results indicate that travel competence, social support, and destination activities, are three key components of the coping strategies business travelers utilize to decrease their stress on the road. Also, this study indicates that healthy menus, in-room amenities (i.e., technology, a temperature control panel, and quality of bedding and bath amenities), and convenience (i.e., distance to business sites/airport and hotel services) were considered important hotel attributes that help business travelers overcome travel-related stress. This study took an initial attempt to explore business travelers’ coping strategies used to combat travel-related stress. Since the need of understanding business travelers’ well-being and work–life balance has been increasing, this study could contribute to the limited research related to business travelers’ stress and bring suggestions for corporate travel policies and programs, as well as travel satisfaction. Consequently, this study broaches the subject of business travelers’ stress and implications for hospitality service providers.


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