A Concept Analysis of Coping in Caregivers of Older People with Dementia

Various terms have been used to define coping in caregivers of older people with dementia with varied abstract concepts that are widely used in nursing and other disciplines, such as psychology, medicine, and education. A strong understanding of the concept of caregiver coping is essential as a basis for providing appropriate nursing care. This concept analysis aims to clarify the concept of coping in caregivers of older people with dementia and develop the operational definition, attributes, antecedents, and consequences of this concept. This study utilizes Walker and Avant’s concept analysis method. The analysis shows that coping attributes of caregivers of older people with dementia include cognitive and behavioral efforts in providing care, stress adaptation, and use of resources on oneself and the environment. Antecedents of coping include characteristics of caregivers, stressors, and caregivers’ assessment of an event. Meanwhile, the consequences include positive impacts and negative impacts. This analysis can help nurses understand the concept and determine appropriate assessments and interventions for caregivers of older people with dementia. It is suggested that nurses be aware of caregivers’ characteristics, stressors, and assessment of an event. Further research is needed to investigate the need for intervention on the consequences of coping in caregivers of older people with dementia.