Introduction

Abstract

One consequence of living longer in the twenty-first century is that most Americans will become caregivers to either their spouses or their parents, if not both. Caregiving is a genuine act of kindness to those whose lives influence our own and to whom we feel a personal sense of obligation. Although there is not a formal contractual obligation for caregiving, the bonds of filial and marital responsibility often run deep. Many individuals feel a strong moral obligation for giving care throughout the lifespan. However, the rationale for caregiving varies widely among individuals and families, whose expectations and needs often determine the extent of the perceived or actual obligation. Whether motivated by obligation or kindness, the demands of providing care to someone who is frail have considerable physical, psychological, and financial consequences for the caregiver. Supportive social and educational programs have emerged in the past two decades to help individuals and families understand and more effectively assume their caregiving responsibilities. These programs have developed in response to the burgeoning needs expressed by caregivers for information and strategies to help them to become more effective, and less overwhelmed, in their caregiving roles. In this book, we examine research findings that illuminate the efficacy of supportive and educational interventions for family caregivers.