Research Article

Exploring the Caregiver Role after Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Parkinson’s Disease: A Qualitative Analysis

Table 3

Themes and subthemes by group.

Theme 1: identityDBS allows carers to question and shift the caregiver role
 Group A (12–18 months)Am I more than just a caregiver?
 Group B (years 5)The carer identity has shifted
Theme 2: independenceParkinson’s unite and DBS helps divide in time
 Group AThe combined self
 Group BDBS brings balance in relationships through acceptance
Theme 3: personal needsSeeing myself and my needs, DBS enhances visibility
 Group AI am still invisible, DBS has not helped enough
 Group BAcceptance means it is easier to live for me