Health Empowerment in Older Adult Informal Caregivers

Background: The need to support informal caregivers is among the most overlooked challenges facing the aging population, their families, and society. Understanding the experience of well-being and resources contributing to well-being among older caregivers is essential. Objective: The purpose of this research was to explore personal strengths, social contextual resources, and the power to choose and pursue valued objectives central to well-being among older caregivers. This research was theoretically informed by the Health Empowerment Theory. Methods: Qualitative descriptive design addressed research objectives. Purposive sampling included recruitment and interviews with twenty-one older adult caregivers. Qualitative content analysis identified distinct categories and themes of meaning and supported trustworthiness. Results: Categories supported and extended Health Empowerment Theory among older caregivers, reflecting unique strengths, resources, and growth consistent with valued objectives, fostering well-being. Discussion: Findings further understanding of the ways in which caregivers move toward well-being within the context of complexity and change. (C) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.