A Narrative Review of Single Caregiving and the Required Support
10.14442/generalist.48.66
- VernacularTitle:シングル介護の実態と求められる支援に関するナラティブレビュー
- Author:
Nobuko KATAHIRA
- Keywords:
Single Caregiving;
Work-Life Balance;
Caregiver Burden;
Narrative Review
- From:An Official Journal of the Japan Primary Care Association
2025;48(2):66-76
- CountryJapan
- Language:Japanese
-
Abstract:
Objective: This study aimed to conduct a narrative review of research on single caregiving to investigate the current status and challenges faced by single caregivers, identify their support needs, and examine these findings from both medical and nursing perspectives.Method: A literature search of databases, including Igaku Chuo Zasshi and CiNii Article, was conducted to extract articles related to single caregiving. Fifteen articles were extracted and used to assess the situation of single caregivers and the required support.Results: Single caregiving was based on a relationship with the cared-for person. The single caregiver had to balance caregiving with his or her lifestyle in a situation where there was no one else to take his or her place. Balancing work and caregiving was difficult, which led to economic and health problems. There were nine categories of support sought, including "improvement of work-life balance," "establishment of a comprehensive support system," "improvement of the working environment," and "support by medical and nursing personnel." Conclusion: Balancing work and caregiving is important for single caregivers. Medical and nursing professionals must identify whether a caregiver is a single caregiver at an early stage, provide information that takes into account the history of relationships between family members, support the health of both the caregiver and the cared-for individual, and have a long-term perspective on assistance.
