“Seeking a Bridge Over Troubled Waters” Older Men’s Experiences of the Transition from Spouse to Long-Term Caregiver for a Female Partner Living with Dementia—A Meta-Synthesis

There is a growing body of qualitative research on older men caring for a wife or female partner with dementia at home. However, little is known about their experience transitioning from husband to caregiver. This study aimed to summarize and interpret qualitative research to illuminate this transition. Using Sandelowski and Barroso’s meta-synthesis approach, we systematically searched five databases (2000–2024) and included 18 studies from nine countries. Findings were expressed through the overarching metaphor: “ Seeking a bridge over troubled waters ,” encompassing three main categories: (1) from partner to caregiver: adjusting to a new normal; (2) from connection to solitude: navigating the loss of companionship and social participation, and (3) the journey toward embracing a caregiver identity. Although committed to care the men struggled with unfamiliar roles, loneliness, and conflicting emotions. Despite longing for support, many showed resilience in taking on their new role. For some, caregiving led to personal growth, deeper self-understanding, and a renewed sense of meaning. Transitional experiences were consistent across cultures. Nurses can play a vital role in identifying barriers and resources, offering support, and helping older caregivers develop coping strategies. Access to respite and outreach services may help overcome older male caregivers’ reluctance to seek help.