Psychosocial vulnerability among carers of persons living with a chronic illness: a scoping review

Aims: To outline and examine evidence related to the meaning of ‘psychosocial vulnerability’ among caregivers of persons with chronic illnesses. Background: The number of informal caregivers continues to rise globally. Their risk of psychosocial vulnerability is frequently overlooked, but understanding their psychosocial vulnerability may offer insights into meeting their needs. Design: Scoping review following the PRISMA 2020 extension guidelines. Data sources: The databases CINAHL, Embase, Medline/Pubmed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Lenus and ProQuest were systematically searched to identify original research. No date limit was set, and 23 studies were included. Review methods: A five-step approach using the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Thematic analysis guided data analysis. Results: Carers' psychosocial vulnerability occurs when they experience barriers to resources while access and use of supports reduce risk. Antecedents of psychosocial vulnerability include a carer's age and sex, socioeconomic status and their health and wellbeing. Psychosocial vulnerability affects carers' relationships and causes personal losses. Conclusions: The concept of carers' psychosocial vulnerability is complex. Recognition of carers at risk for psychosocial vulnerability would help nurses direct relevant support and information to carers who need it most.