The transition of care from farm-based daycare for people with dementia: The perspective of next of kin

Purpose The aim of the present study was to explore the next of kin's experiences with the transition for people with dementia from a farm-based daycare (FDC) to another service in the municipality. Methods The study has a qualitative, descriptive design. Eight semi-structured interviews with next of kin were conducted. The data were analysed in accordance with content analysis. Results Through the analysis three main categories were developed: (1) Bearing the burden, (2) Being in transition, and (3) Feeling supported. The transition period was highly stressful for next of kin due to the exacerbation of their relatives' dementia symptoms. The next of kin focussed on optimizing the everyday lives of their relatives with dementia, even at the expense of their own well-being. Most participants experienced support from FDC, healthcare services and their informal network. Conclusions The study contributes important insights into the next of kin's experiences. Good quality service, close dialog, information, and support between the different part in the transition process, can be useful for the further development of services with good quality and to reduce the negative effects of care on next of kin.

Automated summary

This study aimed to explore the experiences of next of kin during the transition of people with dementia from a farm-based daycare to another service. The study used a qualitative, descriptive design and conducted eight semi-structured interviews. The results showed that the transition period was highly stressful for next of kin due to the worsening of dementia symptoms. Next of kin focused on optimizing the everyday lives of their relatives with dementia, even at the expense of their own well-being. Most participants received support from the farm-based daycare, healthcare services, and their informal network. The study provides important insights for the development of quality services and reducing the negative effects of care on next of kin.