Caring for disabled husbands : wives' perspectives

There is presently an increasing trend towards deinstitutionalization of several different populations, including physically disabled adults. Although a variety of staffed resources provide for alternative care, 'home' and 'family' remain the primary resource in the community based care system. Given that the family of the 1980's has a decreased capacity to care due to such factors as increased mobility and loss of extended family networks we must be concerned with the continued viability of this resource. And, given that 'family’ is often a euphemism for 'nearest female relative' and that women's role in society has changed markedly in recent years the issue of women as caregivers is one of particularly urgent concern. This study is based on extensive interviews with eight women caring for disabled husbands. The interview schedule and methodology facilitated descriptive data regarding caregiving tasks as well as a comprehensive exploration of what was problematic about the day to day reality of caregiving for these women. The data analysis identified struggling with the 'role' of wife-caregiver, isolation and a changed marital dynamic as primary themes in the process of caregiving. This study provides some insight into what is problematic about caregiving for these wives and some suggestions for improving social work practice and providing more effective services in relation to this population.Arts, Faculty ofSocial Work, School ofGraduat