Date of Award

12-1-2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Health, Physical Education and Recreation

First Advisor

Dr. Frank Brasile

Abstract

The purpose of the proposed study was to determine the perceived benefits of respite care by informal caregivers who are actively pursuing respite services, and to evaluate their expectations after receiving respite services. In addition the study also was undertaken to better understand the roles of “leisure satisfaction” and “Perceived Stress Levels” in the lives of informal caregivers who are currently receiving respite services versus those who are not currently receiving services, in both a pre and post format for both groups of caregivers. The study group of caregivers was given a total of four surveys in the pre-respite package and three surveys in the post-respite package. The comparison group was also given four surveys in their initial package and two surveys in their second package. The findings indicate an increase in leisure satisfaction among the study group, with all caregivers exhibiting value for respite services. The implications from this study indicate that although there were no significant changes noted in state stress levels or overall leisure satisfaction levels, caregivers receiving respite confirmed the positive impact of respite services on their lives.

Comments

A Thesis Presented to the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation And the Faculty of the Graduate College University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment Of the Requirements for the Degree Masters of Science in Recreation and Leisure Studies Recreation Therapy Option University of Nebraska Omaha. Copyright Natalie J. Nauman December, 2006.

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