METHODS: We searched multiple databases spanning from January 2012 to July 2023, identified eligible studies using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria, and extracted key data (e.g., study design/methodology, pain measurement, caregiver pain type, and major findings).
RESULTS: We identified 46 eligible studies conducted in the United States (n = 19) and internationally (n = 27). Studies often focused on caregivers for older adults with specific health conditions, such as cancer (n = 11), dementia (n = 8), or stroke (n = 3). The most commonly employed pain measure was a single-item dichotomous question about pain (n = 16), followed by a visual numeric or visual analog scale (n = 11). Nine studies (five randomized controlled trials) reported on five caregiver pain management interventions, including yoga/exercise programs and caregiver education programs.
CONCLUSIONS: Existing research on family caregivers\' pain offers an important foundation. However, more robust research designs are necessary. We identify possibilities for future studies in addition to opportunities for systematic investigations to support the family caregivers being relied upon to care for the increasing number of older adults.
方法:我们搜索了2012年1月至2023年7月的多个数据库,使用预定义的纳入/排除标准确定了符合条件的研究,和提取的关键数据(例如,研究设计/方法论,疼痛测量,护理人员疼痛类型,和主要发现)。
结果:我们确定了在美国(n=19)和国际(n=27)进行的46项合格研究。研究通常集中在具有特定健康状况的老年人的护理人员上,如癌症(n=11),痴呆(n=8),或中风(n=3)。最常用的疼痛测量是关于疼痛的单项目二分问题(n=16),然后是视觉数字或视觉模拟量表(n=11)。九项研究(五项随机对照试验)报道了五项护理人员疼痛管理干预措施,包括瑜伽/锻炼计划和护理人员教育计划。
结论:现有的关于家庭照顾者疼痛的研究提供了一个重要的基础。然而,更强大的研究设计是必要的。除了进行系统调查的机会外,我们还确定了未来研究的可能性,以支持依靠家庭照顾者来照顾越来越多的老年人。