Discharge Planning for People Living with Dementia in Ontario and Caregiver Rights

What is this Study about?

This study explores the experience of family and friend caregivers when they are supporting a person living with dementia to discharge from hospital including the emergency room. It focuses on how caregivers experience discharge planning processes and policies, how their perspectives and needs are considered at this key time, and the impacts upon the person they care for and themself in the 6 months after a hospital stay. We will used findings to develop recommendations to improve understanding of the role, needs and rights of caregivers as they care for people who live with dementia in the community.

What Will Happen in This Study?

Participants will be asked to take part in an approximately 60 minute interview. Interviews can take place in English, French or a different language (translation services will be provided). Participants can choose whether they want to take part in an interview in person, virtually (via Zoom) or by telephone

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

Caregivers:

- are the primary family or friend caregiver of a person living with dementia who lives/lived in the community

- the care recipient was in hospital including the emergency room and discharged to the community within the last 3 years

- you provided care between 0-3 years ago

- you provided care in Ottawa or the surrounding 200 km

- you are comfortable taking part in a 60-minute interview in English, French or in a different language (translation services are available)

- the care recipient did not have an acute life limiting condition such as terminal cancer for the entire duration of your journey of providing care.

Social Workers

- are a social worker who currently or within the last 3 years worked with people living with dementia who are discharging or who discharged from a health care facility. This may include hospital and community-based social workers.

- you work in Ottawa or the surrounding 200 km

- you have worked a minimum of 3 months in this role

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