Date of Award
2011
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Program
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Supervisor
Dr. Bert Chesworth
Second Advisor
Dr. Dorothy Forbes
Abstract
As the population ages, hip fractures become a major concern for older adults. Using an ethnographic approach, this research aimed to understand first, the role of family caregivers following a hip fracture, and secondly, to determine caregiver needs and what contributions they make to knowledge exchange. This was achieved by conducting in-depth interviews with eleven patients, eight family caregivers and twenty-two healthcare providers. The study took place in a small rural setting in south-western Ontario. Thematic analysis of the data indicated that family caregivers play a vital role in the rehabilitation journey of patients with a hip fracture. As well, family caregivers make an important contribution to knowledge exchange during transitions between care settings by providing valuable information about the patient. Future research needs to examine more closely how these contributions to knowledge exchange create smoother transitions. Going forward, healthcare providers and family caregivers should focus on co creating knowledge and working together to benefit the patient.
Recommended Citation
Elliot, Jacobi Brianne, "EXPLORING THE ROLE OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS DURING CARE TRANSITIONS OF RURAL OLDER ADULTS FOLLOWING A HIP FRACTURE" (2011). Digitized Theses. 3366.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/digitizedtheses/3366