Background.

Alzheimer´s disease is the third biggest disease in the west world and many people who has Alzheimer´s disease are living with their relative. It´s the relative who is one of the first to notice changes in their partner´s behavior. The fact that the relative is taking care of their partner for many years often leads to stress.

Aim.

The aim of this study was to illuminate what relative´s experience when they are living with a person who has Alzheimer´s disease.

Method.

The method performed was qualitative content analysis of autobiographies, described by Lundman and Hällgren Graneheim. The study was based on five autobiographies from Swedish authors.

Results.

Four categories with subcategories emerged. The categories were concern about the future, confinement with their partner, guilt over the decision they make and frustration over the situation that has occurred. Concern was about not longer recognizing their partner and that it is hard to let go of their partner. Confinement was how the life situation changed, limitation in their daily living and being constantly needed. Guilt was associated with fear of making wrong decisions and concealing the situation from outsiders or their own partner. The frustration was about irritation and resignation.

Conclusion.

It has been known from this study that concern about the future, confinement with their partner, guilt over the decision they make and frustration over the situation that has occurred is common among relative´s and it´s therefore important to take note of the relative´s experiences in order to design care as good as possible for the person who has Alzheimer´s disease.