Objective:

While there is a growing evidence base about the experiences of male caregivers of people with dementia, very little attention has been given to male caregivers from British Indian communities within the UK. This study addresses the gap in the literature aiming to gain an understanding of how male British Indian caregivers experience providing care to a partner with dementia, so that services can adapt where possible to meet the needs of a growing population of caregivers.

Method:

Six male British Indian spousal caregivers completed semi structured interviews. Data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Findings:

Three main themes emerged with a total of 8 subthemes. The main themes were Dementia has changed both of our lives, Seeking help can be difficult and Becoming a familial caregiver.

Conclusions:

The findings highlight that caregivers experienced a significant reduction in social activities as a result of their caregiving responsibilities. Participants recognised dementia as a medical condition for which they sought medical advice and they did not speak of stigma related to a diagnosis. Participants did not wish to seek support from services until they could no longer manage due to a desire to remain in control, yet they described the detrimental impact of this on their emotional and physical health. There was a desire of not wanting to burden other family members including children. Caring for male caregivers in this study was understood as a marital responsibility. The clinical implications for the findings are discussed.