BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Shared stressors are co-experienced by dyad members and increase each's psychological distress. This study analyzes dyadic qualitative data with dually eligible (i.e., Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries) residents and their care partners during a subacute/post-acute skilled nursing facility (SNF) stay. We aimed to: (1) identify shared stressors that impact both dyad members
and (2) explore differences between dyad relationship types. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Seventeen dyads (N=34 individuals) participated in semi-structured interviews during a SNF stay, separately. There were no exclusion criteria based on relationship type. The dyadic framework method was used to analyze dyads as a single unit, rather than the sum of separate narratives. RESULTS: The sample consisted of adult child (n=9, 53%), friend (n=6, 35%), sibling (n=1, 6%), and parent (n=1, 6%) care partners. Four themes emerged providing insight into shared stressors: (1) balancing autonomy and support
(2) long-term care decision-making
(3) cognitive concerns requiring attention
and (4) pre-existing relationships. Care roles and shared stressors were mostly similar across relationship type
although, some inter-dyad differences were noted in decision-making processes and interpersonal dynamics. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: This study identified multiple shared stressors that occur during SNF stays, as dyads must navigate changes to autonomy-support structures as well as the care environment, caregiving role, and existing relationship, together. We discuss implications for research, practice, and policy, including: dyadic psychological intervention
care partner training for psychological, behavioral, and case management
cognitive symptom assessment, education, and management
and support for long-term care decision-making and transitions.