Does the role of the carer for people with BD change over time?
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Does the role of relatives and friends in supporting someone with bipolar disorder change over time?
IRAS ID
321713
Contact name
Caitlin Williams
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 1 days
Research summary
There are a number of changes that can occur as people age. Many people will experience cognitive decline and a deterioration in their physical health. The impact of aging can be more complex for people who experience severe mental health problems such as bipolar disorder (BD). Individuals with BD are often supported by a relative or friend, and given what we know about the changes that can occur in later life, it is likely that the role of the relative or friend will change over time. The role of relatives and friends in supporting individuals with bipolar disorder is crucial. Therefore, is important that we have a good understanding of the relative and friend’s perspective of their role as the person with BD ages, as well as the person with BD’s own perspective.
This study aims to explore whether the role of the relatives and friends of older adults with BD changes over time. This will be a qualitative study lasting approximately 10-12 months. The researcher will conduct interviews with an older person with BD and their relative/friend. The participants will interact and co-construct their answers together. The data will be analysed using thematic analysis. Eligible participants would be an older adult with BD (50 years +) together with a relative or friend that supports them. Participants will have a choice of completing interviews online via Teams or face to face at The University of Manchester or Lancaster University. Each participant will be involved in the study for approximately 2 months.
Through exploring whether the role changes over time, we will be able to increase our understanding of what support is needed for carers, relatives and friends supporting older adults with BD. This will be helpful because it could inform resources and support for relatives and friends.
REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/NE/0197
Date of REC Opinion
25 Jan 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion