Assistant Professor, Doctoral Program Director Southern Connecticut State University Sandy Hook, Connecticut, United States
Overview: Caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) are at risk for experiencing social isolation. This qualitative study examines congregational response to caregivers of PLWD experience as they engage with their communities. Exploration of the barriers and opportunities for social support in faith communities addresses a gap in the extant research.Proposal text: Caregivers of persons living with dementia are at risk for experiencing social isolation. Current research validates the beneficial relationship between caregiver health, mental health, and spiritual beliefs and religious practices, including participation a faith community (Chen et al., 2019; Koenig et al., 2012; Krause, 2006; Plunkett et al., 2017). Exploration of the barriers and opportunities to religious social support in faith communities addresses a gap in the extant research in this area. The aim of this study is to elucidate the connections of caregivers of PLWD in faith communities, utilizing an analysis of narratives from those in the crucible of caring. This study illuminates the barriers that impact caregivers’ experiences in their faith communities and contribute to social isolation. Six barriers emerged from the interviews with 22 participants: lack of education about dementia, lack of dementia-specific programs, stigma, physical barriers, lack of accommodations, and caregiver mental health. Additionally, this study underscores caregivers’ experiences with religious social support in their faith communities highlighting opportunities available for social connection. Five opportunities emerged including: proactive support, feeling welcomed, dementia-specific education, dementia-specific programs, and reciprocal connection through volunteer opportunities. Drawing on the themes provided in the findings, this presentation discusses potential implications for social workers and faith community leaders working with those impacted by impacted and for future scholarship on social connection in faith communities.
As the population continues to age, intentional and strategic changes are needed to create and sustain meaningful connections for PLWD and their caregivers. Overcoming barriers and limitations in faith communities provides fertile ground for deep and consistent connection. Unless specific attention and efforts are made in faith communities, even the most caring communities can contribute to the devaluing and isolation of persons living with dementia and their caregivers. Faith communities can capitalize on the strengths they possess along with their existing relationships with PLWD to provide a safe, recognizable space and vital connection. The narratives of the caregivers who participated in this research provide recommendations for social work practice, faith leaders and faith communities, and highlight the need for ongoing research needs.
