Objectives : This study aims to explore nature and meaning of caregiver’s burden in the primary caregivers
of patients with dementia.
Methods : Research methodology was based upon Giorgi’s phenomenological research methodology.
Study participants were selected from two people who are supporting dementia patients.
Interview was performed in April 2014 one month, more than three times over 1:1. Each interview
time took over an hour.
Results : As a result of discussions about the care burden of caregivers, finds the meaning of 16 units
were derived 7 sub-components and 3 components. Three components included the role heavy,
the limitation of social activities, the efforts to adaptation. However, these results were different
depending on the individual tendencies, characteristics of the background and situation in life.
Conclusion : The root cause of physical, mental and financial burden are required the social services to
share the role with role overload. In addition, building support systems required to improve
burden through education to work together with surrounding family and friends and neighbors.
Furthermore, it will prepare a variety of coping strategies to maintain occupational balance
and increase the quality of life for patients and caregiver.