Exploring the impact of caregiving on adult children

A lot of research into the impact of caregiving has focused on spouses and partners who provide care, but less is known about the experiences of adult children caring for a parent with MND. 
This study will investigate the experiences of adult children who care for a parent with MND, including the emotional, psychological, relational and practical impact of caregiving. The researchers are particularly interested in how caring affects family relationships, identity, wellbeing and support needs. 

How will this study help people with and affected by MND now and/or in the future?

The researchers hope that exploring the experiences of adult children caring for a parent with MND will help to increase understanding of the unique challenges faced by this group. In the future, the findings may help inform more family-inclusive approaches to psychological support, service provision, and caregiver resources within MND care. The study may also highlight gaps in current support systems and identify areas for further research.
 

Taking Part

What does taking part involve?

People who choose to take part will be invited to an interview conducted online. The interview is expected to last approximately 60–90 minutes. Questions will focus on participants’ experiences of caring for a parent with MND, including emotional, relational, and practical aspects of caregiving.
 

Participation is entirely voluntary, and participants can choose not to answer any questions.

 

Who can take part?

Adult children (aged 18 years and above) who have experience of caring for a parent diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. 

Participants must:

  • Be aged 18 years or over.
  • Have experience caring for a parent with MND for at least 3 months within the last 5 years.
  • Be or have been informal carers.
  • Be able to participate in an interview conducted in English.
  • Currently reside in the UK or UK overseas territory.

How can I take part?

If you are interested in taking part in an interview or would like more information about the study, please contact Silvan Aidasani, at sa24558@essex.ac.uk

The researchers are also looking for people with lived experience of caring for a parent with MND to help shape the development of this research. If you are interested in this opportunity, you can find out more on the webpage. 

Study location

UK-wide

Funding

This study is funded by Essex University