A qualitative systematic review of factors affecting caregivers' decision-making for care setting placements for individuals with dementia

Aims: To synthesize factors that facilitates or hinders the choice of a new living environment for a person with dementia by the informal caregiver.; Background: In an effort to develop evidenced-based interventions to support caregivers, it is essential to explore their experience.; Design: A qualitative systematic review using thematic synthesis. Studies published up to July 2019 were retrieved from four electronic databases. Two independent reviewers selected studies and assessed their methodological quality.; Findings: Choosing a new living environment for a person with dementia includes two main concerns for caregivers: (1) evaluating the current living environment and caregiving arrangements; and (2) evaluating potential living environments. The key factor, that is acceptability, reflects the extent to which a change of living environment is personally and socially perceived as desirable, suitable, as well as decent for all stakeholders.; Conclusions: Future interventions must consider that caregivers' decision-making process is highly social and value-laden.