Types of Empathy Among Certified Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia.

PURPOSE

This study identifies the unique phenomena and subjectivity of empathy as exhibited by certified caregivers.

METHODS

Q-methodology was used to define types and describe the characteristics of empathy in certified caregivers. After in-depth interviews with 10 certified caregivers and a review of the related literature, the final 38 Q-samples were selected by collecting experts' opinions. These Q-samples were sorted by 30 certified caregivers (P-samples). The PC-QUNAL program was used to analyze the Q-sort data.

RESULTS

Seven distinctive Q-factors for the empathy of certified caregivers were identified: I. Information-oriented cognition, II. Sensory communication, III. Compassion, IV. Performance-seeking through self-reflection, V. Intuitive empathy, VI. Role-centered sincerity, and VII. Passive obligation. The empathy of certified caregivers caring for older adults with dementia showed various characteristics according to each of their subjective values and judgments.

CONCLUSION

This study's results help identify the empathy types and characteristics of certified caregivers caring for older adults with dementia and may contribute to improving the quality of care.