Wanted: Experiences of ‘Atypical’ Caregivers

Katie, who is a Masters Student at the University of Southampton, is looking for people to take part in her research.

Katie says, "My study will explore the experiences of 'atypical' carers of older people in care homes. This is based on the experiences of many older people who do not have children, and the informal care gaps they experience as a result of this. I am interested in what other family members or friends take on a support role, and how this continues (or begins) after someone moves into a care home.

Childlessness in later life has significant implications for older people's social/support networks and is largely neglected in policy, leaving many ageing without children at a disadvantage. Existing research shows, however, that single or widowed older people without children often receive support from other family members and friends, and so I am interested in hearing about how this support continues (or starts) after someone moves into a care home.

I am conducting interviews with people who support someone in a care home who is not their parent, grandparent, partner or spouse, and who does not have any children nor a partner/spouse. If this sounds like you, I’d love to hear from you.

Interviews can be online and will last around 30-60 minutes."

Click here to see if you are eligible to take part.

For more information, please contact Katie on kt2n24@soton.ac.uk / 07903393580