Adaptive Grief in Bereaved Dementia Caregivers: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis

Abstract

Bereaved dementia caregivers face unique challenges in navigating grief, yet research on dementia-specific adaptive grieving remains limited. Expanding on a prior scoping review, this concept analysis clarifies the theoretical construct of adaptive grief among bereaved dementia caregivers using Rodgers’ evolutionary approach, which views concepts as dynamic and evolving. A review of 11 data sources (2013–2024) across nursing, sociology, medicine, and psychology identified three key attributes of dementia-specific adaptive grief: (1) rebuilding purpose: reconnecting with interests and community on one’s own terms, (2) integrating change: blending past, present, and future experiences to regain direction, and (3) growing toward potential: pursuing self-defined goals and personal development. By defining dementia-specific adaptive grief, this concept analysis provides healthcare professionals with a clearer framework to recognize its evolving nature and distinguish it from maladaptive grief. It also emphasizes the need for longitudinal and culturally diverse research to inform tailored interventions that better support bereaved dementia caregivers.