Balancing caregiving and educational responsibilities: Descriptive Study of University Employees and Student Caregivers in a University in Appalachia. A Snapshot of Preliminary Findings
Location
D.P. Culp Center Room 311
Start Date
4-5-2024 2:30 PM
End Date
4-5-2024 3:30 PM
Name of Project's Faculty Sponsor
Jodi Southerland
Faculty Sponsor's Department
Community and Behavioral Health
Competition Type
Competitive
Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Category
Social Sciences
Abstract or Artist's Statement
In the United States, family caregivers play an indispensable role in supporting aged individuals facing health challenges. However, the effort of these caregivers often goes unnoticed. This study addresses the unique challenges experienced by university employees and student caregivers as they navigate the role of balance between professional and caregiving responsibilities. The primary objective is to describe the characteristics and experiences of these caregivers. This cross-sectional study was conducted at an Appalachian university among employees and students who provided unpaid care to adult family members or friends within the last 90 days. Study participants, totaling 172 employees and 162 student caregivers, completed an online Qualtrics survey from November to December 2023. Preliminary analysis indicate that two-thirds of participants were female, with half aged >50 years old. Half of the respondents provided care for two years or less, and a majority anticipate continuing caregiving in the next two years. Most caregivers cared for a single person, a mother, father, or grandmother. Chi-square and t-tests will be used to explore differences among caregiver demographics. The study underscores significant challenges faced by university employees and student caregivers in balancing academic professional and caregiving roles. It emphasizes the essential need for tailored support mechanisms within academia to address their specific needs, foster inclusivity, contribute to a resilient academic community, and establish a foundational framework for future caregiver support initiatives at universities.
Balancing caregiving and educational responsibilities: Descriptive Study of University Employees and Student Caregivers in a University in Appalachia. A Snapshot of Preliminary Findings
D.P. Culp Center Room 311
In the United States, family caregivers play an indispensable role in supporting aged individuals facing health challenges. However, the effort of these caregivers often goes unnoticed. This study addresses the unique challenges experienced by university employees and student caregivers as they navigate the role of balance between professional and caregiving responsibilities. The primary objective is to describe the characteristics and experiences of these caregivers. This cross-sectional study was conducted at an Appalachian university among employees and students who provided unpaid care to adult family members or friends within the last 90 days. Study participants, totaling 172 employees and 162 student caregivers, completed an online Qualtrics survey from November to December 2023. Preliminary analysis indicate that two-thirds of participants were female, with half aged >50 years old. Half of the respondents provided care for two years or less, and a majority anticipate continuing caregiving in the next two years. Most caregivers cared for a single person, a mother, father, or grandmother. Chi-square and t-tests will be used to explore differences among caregiver demographics. The study underscores significant challenges faced by university employees and student caregivers in balancing academic professional and caregiving roles. It emphasizes the essential need for tailored support mechanisms within academia to address their specific needs, foster inclusivity, contribute to a resilient academic community, and establish a foundational framework for future caregiver support initiatives at universities.