When older people harm their family carers
Research type
Research Study
Full title
When older people harm their carers: investigating the experiences and needs of family carers
IRAS ID
224614
Contact name
Louise Isham
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham UK
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
We are investigating the experiences and needs of family carers affected by harmful, violent or abusive behaviour from the older person for whom they care. Across the world the older age population is increasing as are the number of people caring for older family members. The intensity, duration and nature of caring in families vary greatly; however, research has consistently shown that caring often has a negative impact on many carers’ health and well-being in the short and longer term. Research also indicates that the impact of experiencing violence or abuse within an intimate or family relationship is often significant and enduring. It is therefore credible to suggest that family carers affected by violent, abusive or harmful behaviour will have complex and specific needs. This project aims to develop understanding about this sensitive and hidden issue: to raise awareness, improve identification and to tailor support for affected families. During the initial stages of our project we carried out a systematic literature review and found that there is limited theory or evidence about the topic. We then established an advisory group of carers, ex-carers and professionals. We worked with them to think and plan how we could practically and sensitively reach out to affected families and learn about their experiences. We are currently carrying out in-depth interviews with family carers and ex-carers who are affected by harmful, violent or abusive behaviour from across the UK. We then plan to carry out interviews with health and social care professionals working with affected families. Using qualitative research techniques, we will analyse and synthesise our findings and develop recommendations for future research and applied practice. The project is funded by the College of Medical and Dental Science at the University of Birmingham.
REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/WM/0208
Date of REC Opinion
7 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion