Reciprocity, emotional well-being, and family functioning as determinants of family satisfaction in caregivers of elderly parents

The purpose of this study was to test a theoretical model developed to explain family satisfaction among 171 caregivers of elderly parents. Using LISREL to estimate path coefficients, the findings support family satisfaction as directly and indirectly influenced by reciprocity, emotional well-being, and family functioning. Explanatory variables accounted flow 70% of the variance in predicting family satisfaction. Intrinsic rewards derived from giving care, positive affect, and family functioning contributed to higher levels of family satisfaction, while dysphoria contributed significantly to lower levels. Family satisfaction was also indirectly influenced by positive and negative exchanges received by the parent. Increasing caregivers' awareness of the reciprocal nature of their relationships with all family members may be an effective strategy in helping them appreciate their contribution to the well-being of their parents and achieve satisfaction in the caregiving role.