The perceived value of complementary therapy for carers

Abstract

Background: Carers receive little statutory support to the detriment of their own health and well-being. Complementary therapies can benefit carers accompanying hospitalised relatives but community provision had not been assessed. This study appraised the perceived value of a community based service from the perspectives of carers, carer support workers and a therapist. Methods: Participants were 114 carers attending complementary therapy appointments over eight weeks within a voluntary carer support service. Using a three word task carers described their feelings before and after therapy. Similar words were sub-grouped. Separate staff and carer focus groups were held and analysed using thematic analysis with an inductive approach. Findings: ‘Before’ words (247) revealed subgroups related to tiredness, stress and anxiety. ‘After’ words (276) related to being relaxed, calm and energized. Overarching focus group themes were the value of the service to carers as individuals (8 sub-themes including feeling valued for themselves and providing a safe space to be listened to) and as community members (5 sub-themes including providing an alternative to the G.P. and a route to maintain regular contact with a supportive organisation and its members). Discussion: Complementary therapy provides immediate benefits as evidenced by the word task. Focus groups revealed multi-dimensional value. However it remains unclear how long positive effects last. Financial constraints mean complementary therapy may be viewed as non-essential pampering. However awareness of the embedded beneficial components and their potential contribution towards psychological well-being offers health psychologists involved in carer support evidence to encourage this effective non-medicalised provision.