Exploring the meaning of home for family caregivers of people with dementia

Abstract The home remains the preferred site for ageing and care provision, yet its role and meaning for caregivers remains under-studied. Thirteen co-resident family caregivers of people with dementia were interviewed about the personal meaning of their home environment. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that ‘home is everything’ for caregivers and included two major themes, each with two sub-themes: 1. The different meanings of home: 1.1 home as a secure haven, and 1.2 home looks like a hospital, feels like as a prison. 2. Perceived impact of home: to move or not to move? 2.1 need for relocation, and 2.2 staying in place but redefine the home environment. The findings provide insights into the meaning of home and ways it may change, and identify areas for further exploration and also practical support for co-resident caregivers in their own homes.