Abstract
This narrative review investigates the positive aspects of being a family caregiver for individuals with developmental disabilities (DDs) using the National Wellness Institute’s Six Dimensions of Wellness (Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Occupational, Spiritual, and Social). While much research has traditionally focused on “caregiver burden,” this review highlights the often-overlooked beneficial outcomes of caregiving. Emotional wellness is enhanced through gratitude and resilience. Physical wellness is discussed through interventions like physical activity, which can reduce caregiver distress. Intellectual wellness emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, helping caregivers find fulfillment in their roles. Occupational wellness shows that employment and community engagement can reduce anxiety among caregivers. Spiritual wellness underscores the significance of finding meaning and purpose in caregiving, aiding in coping strategies. Social wellness emphasizes the importance of community support, social connections, and advocacy, which positively impact caregivers' well-being. By shifting the focus from burden to benefits, this review offers valuable insights for researchers, clinicians, employers, health coaches, and policymakers aiming to support and empower family caregivers. Future research should continue to explore these dimensions to enhance the overall wellness of caregivers and their care recipients.
Plain Language Summary
This review is about family members who help people with developmental disabilities. The review looks at good things about caregiving instead of the hard parts. It talks about six types of wellness. These include emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, spiritual, and social wellness.
The researchers looked at studies from 2014 to 2024 to learn about the good sides of caregiving. They left out studies that were not reviewed by experts or focused on other conditions. The results show that caregivers can build emotional strength through gratitude and resilience. Exercise helps improve physical health and lowers stress. Mental growth, called intellectual wellness, helps caregivers feel more fulfilled. Work or community activities, part of occupational wellness, can reduce stress and worry. Spiritual wellness means finding purpose in caregiving, which helps caregivers deal with challenges. Social wellness comes from having support from friends, community, and advocacy.
This review shows a new way of thinking about caregiving by focusing on its benefits. It shares ways that rules, programs, and studies can help caregivers stay well and strong. More studies should look at these positive effects.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Perkoski, Valerie
(2026)
"From Strain to Strength: A Narrative Review of Wellness Dimensions in Caregiving,"
Developmental Disabilities Network Journal: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 08.
DOI: 10.59620/2694-1104.1131
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/ddnj/vol5/iss2/08
Included in
Development Studies Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Family and Consumer Sciences Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons
