This study explored informal family caregiver experiences in supporting care transitions between hospital and home for medically complex older adults. Using a qualitative, grounded-theory approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with community and resource case managers, as well as with informal caregivers of older hip-fracture and stroke patients, and of those recovering from hip replacement surgery. Six properties characterizing caregiver needs in successfully transitioning care between hospital and home were integrated into a theory addressing both a transitional care timeline and the emotional journey. The six properties were (1) assessment of unique family situation; (2) practical information, education, and training; (3) involvement in planning process; (4) agreement between formal and informal caregivers; (5) time to make arrangements in personal life; and (6) emotional readiness. This work will support research and clinical efforts to develop more well-informed and relevant interventions to most appropriately support patients and families during transitional care.

This paper presents psychometric data on a new, three-dimensional measure of self-efficacy for caregivers of older adults. Based on a sample of family caregivers of persons with dementia and a longitudinal study design (Time 1: N = 134; Time 2: N = 103), the RIS Eldercare Self-Efficacy Scale assesses relational self-efficacy, instrumental self-efficacy, and self-soothing efficacy. These three dimensions show strong internal consistency and moderate test-retest reliability. Their construct validity is demonstrated by their zero-order correlations with a set of standardized indicators of the caregivers' health and morale, personality characteristics, and personal resources. Multivariate analyses suggest that the three dimensions are more strongly trait- than state-linked. Use of this measure as a clinical screening tool and in intervention research is discussed.

The goal of this study is to describe gender-specific care situations based on interviews and case studies with key caregivers. Eight main themes emerged; namely, the action of taking a certain degree of additional responsibility, the perception of the process of illness, the care received from the formal and informal networks, the effects of assuming care on the male or female caregiver's social life, the quality of care given, the caregiver's own health, the costs associated with caregiving and the survival strategies adopted by male and female caregivers. Recommendations were proposed by interviewees and the findings point to the conclusion that changes to the health and social services network have affected women and men informal caregivers. Women enjoyed limited informal support, and it would appear that informal caregiving has consequences that affect the health, mental well-being, social life, and economic autonomy of women. These case studies will contribute to a systematic gender-based analysis during the development of programs and policies directed towards formal and informal caregivers.