Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Supervisor

Sandra Hobson

Abstract

Presently in Canada, there are approximately 500,000 individuals living with dementia, which is expected to increase to over one million by 2038. With Canada’s minority elderly population growing, the number of Iranian-Canadian older adults living with dementia is expected to rise as well. Family caregivers are a significant source of help among Iranian-Canadians and the provision of informal care by adult children for parents with dementia in the Iranian culture is an expression of love and dedication.

This study explored the meaning of the experience of Iranian adult children in Canada caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s disease, the values and attitudes they held in regards to their utilization and expectation from formal and informal care services, and the role of culture in shaping these experiences. A phenomenological study was used to investigate this phenomenon. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were held with four adult child caregivers and rich data were obtained. The research findings focused on the dual reality of dementia caregiving, the importance of fulfilling filial obligations, and the expression of preferences in formal dementia care.

Key words: dementia, minority, Iranian-Canadian, family caregiver, informal care, culture, phenomenology

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