Mapping The Journey: Family Carers' Perceptions of Issues Related To End-Stage Care Of Individuals With Muscular Dystrophy Or Motor Neurone Disease
Document Type
Journal Article
Faculty
Faculty of Computing, Health and Science
School
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Postgraduate Medicine / WA Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care
RAS ID
2238
Abstract
Progress in medical technology and treatment has resulted in more people with neurodegenerative conditions surviving for longer periods of time. This increased lifespan means that these individuals have a longer period of dependency on others, with a heightened need to maintain quality of life for both the individual and the family. Our paper reports on the findings of a study involving in-depth interviews with 16 carers to determine their perceived needs during the final stage of caring for someone with muscular dystrophy (MD) or motor neurone disease. Results suggest that the palliative care model has much to offer individuals with degenerative neuromuscular conditions and their families, but it is not yet recognized as an important part of care for young people with MD. Three major themes emerged in the analysis: reactions and responses, health system crossing points, reaching forward.
Comments
Dawson, S., & Kristjanson, L. J. (2003). Mapping the journey: family carers' perceptions of issues related to end-stage care of individuals with muscular dystrophy or motor neurone disease. Journal of palliative care, 19(1), 36-42. Available here.