Factors Impacting Spouse of a Chronically Ill Patient - Essay Example

Download file to see previous pages... For instance, a spouse might be compelled to set aside personal needs or reorganize private lives in preparation for the unpredictability of the condition of the patient (Kapteinm, et al., 2007). Such unexpected occurrences, as claimed by most spouses of the chronically ill patient may hinder individual achievements and create relationship changes. In support of the change in relationship argument, theory asserts that relationship changes emanate from the increased thoughts about the future on the part of the healthy spouse (Rees, et al., 2001). Most of the healthy spouses, if not encouraged by the ill partner to be free, end up suffering psychologically due to increased stress stemming from the worry of the pain experienced by the sick partner.
Further research indicates that most ill partners tend to suffer as they try to cope with their new lifestyles. For instance, a blog shows the quality of chronically ill patients suffers in a myriad of ways (sickmomma, 2013). They have to deal with fear, malaise, and apathy. All these stated aspects have negating impacts on their sexuality and social perception. They often feel powerless due to the pity and constant attention they receive from the public, an aspect that tends to worsen the agony of the pain. In concurrence with these sentiments, Kaptein et al., (2007) claim that the lack of information on the public on how to treat terminally ill patients is a significant challenge. They argue that since their spouses and public perceives them with pity, the chronically ill patients end up viewing themselves as powerless in the society.
In conclusion, chronically ill patients though suffer from the ailment; it is evident that their suffering spreads to their healthy spouses. The sudden change in lifestyle leads to unexpected shifts in the relationship as both partners try to adjust to the new developments.
Kaptein, A. A., Scharloo, M., Helder, D. I., Snoei, L., van Kempen, G. M., , J., . . . C. (2007). ...Download file to see next pagesRead More