Careers and quality of life: Comparing perceptions of compound and noncompound caregivers

Authors

• Christina N. Marsack-Topolewski, Eastern Michigan University
• Kathryn Wright, Wayne State University
• Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller, Wayne State University
• Preethy S. Samuel, Wayne State University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2026

Department/School

Social Work

Publication Title

Occupational Therapy in Health Care

Abstract

Study objectives were to compare differences in quality of life (QOL) and family quality of life (FQOL) between compound and noncompound caregivers and describe how career-related dimensions influence the global FQOL. Examination of survey data from 77 compound and 113 noncompound caregivers indicated that compound caregivers had lower QOL, global FQOL, and worse career outcomes than noncompound caregivers. Global FQOL was associated with greater career satisfaction, higher income, and noncompound caregiver type. For compound caregivers, global FQOL was associated with more career opportunities and positive perceptions of career stability. These findings have implications for supporting career pursuits of family caregivers.

Comments

C. N. Marsack-Topolewski is a faculty member in EMU's School of Social Work.

Link to Published Version

DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2024.2400526

Recommended Citation

Marsack-Topolewski, C. N., Wright, K., DiZazzo-Miller, R., & Samuel, P. S. (2026). Careers and quality of life: Comparing perceptions of compound and noncompound caregivers. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 40(2), 424–226. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380577.2024.2400526