Informal caregivers’ experiences and feelings about care receiver falls and falls risk at home

Abstract Background Informal caregivers play a central role in home care, but falls, often lead to hospitalization. Caregivers view fall risk as a burden. Although they are key in fall prevention, particularly for older adults with cognitive impairments, more is needed on their experiences and emotions regarding falls. Adverse events like falls can lead to caregivers becoming ‘second victims’, experiencing guilt, anxiety, and reduced self-confidence. However, they often lack support to manage these emotional impacts. It is essential to explore informal caregivers’ psychological safety and strategies to promote both caregiver and care recipient safety. This study aims to answer: What are the experiences and support needs of informal caregivers regarding falls and fall risk, and how can both psychological and physical safety be promoted? Methods As part of the BetterCare project (COST Action CA22152), this study interviewed informal caregivers using the CoCoPro protocol with GDPR-compliant consent. Data were analyzed inductively. The protocol, co-created by BetterCare, addresses care complexity, burden, safety, and error response, aiming to understand caregivers’ experiences and ensure ethical handling of sensitive topics like psychological safety and emotional support. Results Preliminary findings suggest that falls significantly affect informal caregivers’ psychological safety, causing fear and uncertainty about their ability to continue caregiving. Many informal caregivers worry about their physical and emotional well-being and feel they lack professional support. Fall incidents are rarely reported, missing opportunities for safety improvements. Informal caregivers are often left to assess risks and manage safety themselves. Conclusions Falls affect informal caregivers’ psychological safety, underscoring the need for prevention training, emotional support, and assistance programs. Policies to report falls and improve safety surveillance are essential. Key messages • Falls at home threaten caregivers’ psychological safety, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and prevention programs. • Caregivers’ voices must be included in safety reporting and improvement systems to enhance home care safety.