Happiness and Stress Management Strategies of Adult Children Caregivers of Mothers with Dementia

Main Article Content

Chananan Srisoontornthai
Wasutida Sirifongnukul
Dararat Srijan
Panomporn Phoomchan
Uea-anut Tanomwong
Suchada Sakolkijrungroj

Abstract

Objectives: To explore experience of happiness and stress management strategies among adult children caring for mothers with dementia.


Materials and methods: This study employed a descriptive qualitative research design, utilizing in-depth interviews and non-participant observations to collect data. The participants were seven adult children who served as primary caregivers for their mothers diagnosed with dementia. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis based on the method proposed by Braun and Clarke.


Results: The findings were divided into two main parts: (1) Happiness derived from caring for mothers with dementia, consisting of: (1.1) Repaying gratitude (1.2) Seeing improvement in the mother’s quality of life; and (1.3) Spending time together. (2) Strategies for managing stress among caregivers of mothers with dementia, divided into two subtopics: (2.1) Receiving support from others, such as family members, caregivers, and the surrounding community; and (2.2) Self-stress management techniques, such as learning about the disease for better understanding, adapting, relaxing, and applying Dhamma.


Conclusion: This study provides fundamental insights into caregiver happiness and stress management, which can guide adult children caring for elderly mothers with dementia and inform those involved in elderly care.

Article Details

How to Cite
Srisoontornthai, C., Sirifongnukul, W., Srijan, D., Phoomchan, P., Tanomwong, U.- anut, & Sakolkijrungroj, S. (2026). Happiness and Stress Management Strategies of Adult Children Caregivers of Mothers with Dementia. Thai Journal of Clinical Psychology (Online), 57(2), 1–12. retrieved from https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/tci-thaijclinicpsy/article/view/292323
Section
Original article

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