"Turning to one's own world": escape mechanisms employed by immigrant caregivers in Spain for relieving the burden of care.

PURPOSE

Although past research has focused on the coping strategies of family caregivers, how immigrant caregivers cope with the demands of caregiving remains unknown. This study examines the strategies immigrant caregivers use to relieve the burden of care.

METHOD

A qualitative study based on 17 immigrant women caregivers using purposive and snowball sampling was done. Semistructured interviews and testimonies were obtained and analyzed using grounded theory procedures.

FINDINGS

Turning to one's world describes how caregivers seek relief from the burden of care. They escape virtually, go to a private place, make those they care for their own, and decide to go home. These mechanisms enable them to escape from the world of caregiving in which they find themselves.

DISCUSSION

Findings reveal the significance of family connections and networks for immigrants to achieve burden relief.

IMPLICATIONS

The importance of promoting positive working environments and raising awareness about immigrant caregivers' need for rest.