Predictors of expressed, felt, and normative needs for informal caregiver counseling

Abstract

Abstract Background Informal caregivers (CGs) often fail to recognize or express a need for informal caregiver counseling (ICC) but ICC is an essential but relatively rarely used support service for CGs. Objective Our aim is to identify predictors of CGs’ need for ICC. Stirling et al.’s need model, which includes three needs (expressed, felt, and normative), serves as a theoretical basis. Material and methods Analyses are based on cross-sectional data (n = 958) from the “Benefits of being a caregiver” study. Predictors of the need to use ICC were analyzed with binary logistic regression. A sensitivity analysis using multiple linear regression was performed for the metric value of normative needs. Results We found that 6.8% of CGs currently or have recently used ICC. This expressed need was related to higher education and higher effort in instrumental activities; 24.1% of CGs reported an intention to use ICC in the future. This felt need was related to male gender, lower care level, more problem-focused coping, and a desire for more informal help. Objective need for ICC (normative need), which was related to a higher burden of care, less experienced benefits, and negative relationship quality, was reported by 21.4% of CGs. According to a sensitivity analysis, higher education, a desire for informal help, and living in separate households also predicted a normative need for counseling. Discussion Current utilization is significantly lower than the subjectively perceived and objectively existing need for ICC. The identified predictors provide initial strategies for motivating more CGs to use ICC.