The Lone Caregiver
Lone caregivers derive from families with low conformity and conversation. Regular exchanges of interaction are not part of their family experience, nor are ritualized dates, behaviors, and times together. The members of this family group are stars in the same constellation but have no responsibility or time dedicated to one another. LOW/COLD conformity is demonstrated through a lack of consistency in family rules, sharing beliefs that demonstrate inequity, not recognizing protected family times/rituals, and avoiding the cultivation of family closeness. LOW/COLD communication is characterized by low expectation for agreement and assimilation in conversational topics and frequency of interaction. The dyadic dynamic with the care recipient may serve to be its own significant support for some Lone caregivers. These two collaborators, in some care situations, may share the burdens of decision-making, planning, and even care management. The absence of a family support network moves the Lone caregiver outside of family structures to develop resources and help in caregiving. Healthcare providers and system resources are especially vital in supporting care decisions, goals, and self-care. The Lone caregiver has high levels of facility with information seeking and care navigation/pursuit and presents to others as seeking of the most effective physical relief for the care recipient. This caregiver is particularly bound to the care recipient, vigilant about an unfolding disease path, and in high need of self-care resources and respite.