Dr. Roy W. Harris' Doctoral Dissertation

The purpose of this exploratory research study was to examine the transition of caregivers through the grieving process in order to discover what caregivers experience as they transition from caregiving to grieving and from grieving to post grief recovery. The purpose of this research was not to explore all the illnesses which require care provided by caregivers but a sampling to gain general insight into caregivers' responsibilities, experiences and personal needs. The methodology of this research took a primarily explorative /investigative approach. Exploration of the history, evolution and role of caregiving revealed the major role played by unpaid family caregivers in the United States. The research revealed up to seven periods of caregiver transition. These periods of caregiver transition fall into two major time frames: (1) from initial diagnosis until death of the patient receiving care (2) from the impending death of the patient through post grief recovery of the caregiver. The feelings and needs of unpaid family caregivers, who pass through these periods of transition, are investigated, analyzed and critiqued. The study revealed the need for awareness of caregiver periods of transition by unpaid family caregivers, family members of caregivers, friends, community, and church or synagogue congregations. The study also suggested resources and methods to help caregiver awareness and support during these periods of caregiver transition.