The Social Convoy for Family Caregivers Over the Course of Hospice.

ABSTRACT:

Context

Family caregivers play a central role in the care of those in hospice care. Little is known about the social support networks for those providing this day-to-day care without training.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore changes in family and friend social networks among hospice caregivers over the course of the hospice stay.

Methods

Data on social support networks were collected as part of a multisite randomized controlled trial and analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Results

A statistically significant decline in the caregivers' family network subscale score was found over the four week period during which they received hospice services, reflecting a possible weakening of their family networks.

Conclusion

This result il

SUBMITTER: Albright DL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4733635 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature