Christianity and resilience as experienced by caregivers of dementia patients

The purpose of this study was to examine the role and relationship of the practice of Christian beliefs and resilience in the context of dementia patient caregivers' lives. The guiding question was "What is the relational nature of the practice of Christian beliefs and resilience in the lived experiences of caregivers of dementia patients?".;The sample population consisted of caregivers of dementia patients living in southeast Texas who profess to practice Christian principles. A screening questionnaire was used to glean demographic and qualifying data from candidates from churches, nursing homes, and convenient word of mouth. Interviews with six caregivers and a focus group of two caregivers were recorded, focusing on lived experiences caring for dementia patients. The content was transcribed and analyzed using a constant comparison method. NVivo(TM) and a coding team generated descriptive textural and structural themes. Trustworthiness was established by monitoring and ensuring truth value, applicability, consistency, and neutrality.;The coded themes were compared and contrasted to establish the relevance of the caregivers' practice of Christianity to resilience in the context of their caregiving experiences. It is anticipated that the practice of Christianity and resilience will prove to be related in identifiable ways. The results may be used to help counselors and mental health professionals as they counsel the particular client population composed of practicing Christians who take care of a dementia patient.;KEY WORDS: Caregiver, Caregiver Burden, Christianity, Dementia, Religion, Resilience, Spirituality.