Abstract
Background: Covid-19 has brought socioeconomic and health-related
changes worldwide and unique challenges with no time for adjustment.
Family caregivers of dependent patients were one of the hardest hit
groups.
Methods: This paper draws attention to how family caregivers navigate
throughout this pandemic amid its daily changes, stressing new obstacles
that arose, and what to expect in the foreseeable future. Empirical
literature and clinical experience contributed to this insight.
Results: Along with the already frequent burden and distress, they are
facing additional responsibilities and complex decisions, such as
“choosing” between their own health or their family member’s.
Conclusions: Family caregivers must seek family physicians and/or mental
health professionals assistance to avoid feeling overwhelmed, to be
supported in the meaning- and decision-making processes, and to activate
their support network.
With a “new way of grieving”, often without in-person goodbyes, a
systemic and resilience-oriented approach could help individuals create
meaning and seek a purpose towards the future.