Positive aspects of caregiving in familial care for nonagenarians and centenarians : Findings from Hong Kong Centenarian Study

Abstract

Caregiving is often filled with pains and gains. Family caregiving for the fast-growing but vulnerable population of near-centenarians and centenarians (NCCs) may contain distinct gratifying aspects. We analyzed quantitative and qualitative data from family caregivers of community-dwelling older adults aged 95 or above in Hong Kong. Quantitative analysis of data from 143 caregivers revealed that higher age and intact hearing ability of their NCC, lack of a domestic helper, higher dependence on basic activities of daily living, higher independence on instrumental activities of daily living, and better self-rated health were related to higher scores on positive aspects of caregiving. Qualitative analysis of data from 96 caregivers identified three themes regarding these positive experiences: (i) acquiring skills to render care; (ii) fulfilling family love and obligation, and (iii) preparing for own graceful aging. Our findings elaborated the nature and mechanisms of caregiving gains against the unique backdrop of exceptional longevity of the care recipients and the Chinese cultural expectations of filial piety.