Types of Empathy Among Certified Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia

PURPOSE: This study identifies the unique phenomena and subjectivity of empathy as exhibited by certified caregivers. METHODS: Q-methodology was used to define types and describe the characteristics of empathy in certified caregivers. After in-depth interviews with 10 certified caregivers and a review of the related literature, the final 38 Q-samples were selected by collecting experts’ opinions. These Q-samples were sorted by 30 certified caregivers (P-samples). The PC-QUNAL program was used to analyze the Q-sort data. RESULTS: Seven distinctive Q-factors for the empathy of certified caregivers were identified: I. Information-oriented cognition, II. Sensory communication, III. Compassion, IV. Performance-seeking through self-reflection, V. Intuitive empathy, VI. Role-centered sincerity, and VII. Passive obligation. The empathy of certified caregivers caring for older adults with dementia showed various characteristics according to each of their subjective values and judgments. CONCLUSION: This study’s results help identify the empathy types and characteristics of certified caregivers caring for older adults with dementia and may contribute to improving the quality of care.