[Family caregivers' expectations of respite care of patients with dementia].

The aim of this study was to describe the family caregivers' expectations of the respite care of demented patients. The data was collected using structured theme interviews. The participants (n = 15) of this study were family members of patients suffering from moderate or severe dementia. The family caregivers used respite care as a mode of support either regularly or occasionally. The data was analyzed using content analysis and classified in categories based on the theoretical frame of the study. The results imply that family caregivers expect information concerning dementia, its causes as well as care possibilities. Above all the family caregivers expressed the need to know about the existing support services: domestic help, day care or respite care, voluntary nursing services etc. Also the severe need for psychological support was revealed. Family caregivers wished to have more opportunities to discuss the oppressive matters with the nursing staff. Health professionals need to know more about the family members as well as their expectations and perceptions. That enables them to intervene more effectively to ease the burden of adjustment and facilitate the continuous involvement in care.