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Burden and depression in caregivers of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in China
Author(s) -
Ru Jinli,
Ma Jing,
Niu Hongqing,
Chen Ying,
Li Li,
Liu Yanqiong,
Li Xuxu,
Lian Fengping,
Wang Xiuli
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
international journal of rheumatic diseases
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.795
H-Index - 41
eISSN - 1756-185X
pISSN - 1756-1841
DOI - 10.1111/1756-185x.13397
Subject(s) - medicine , depression (economics) , feeling , quality of life (healthcare) , distress , patient health questionnaire , rheumatoid arthritis , mental health , gerontology , psychiatry , clinical psychology , anxiety , nursing , depressive symptoms , psychology , social psychology , economics , macroeconomics
Aim Caregivers of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often experience a sense of burden and depression. This study aimed to determine the degree of burden and depression on caregivers of RA patients and identify characteristics of both patients and caregivers that may contribute to that distress. Methods A convenience sample of 195 patients with RA and their caregivers completed a demographic questionnaire, Zarit Care Burden Scale, Center Depression Self Rating Scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, and the Short Form Health Survey. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to evaluate contributing factors. Results Overall, caregivers' feelings of burden and depression were moderate, with 52 (26.7%) feeling depression and 156 (80%) feeling burdened. Caregivers with poorer health (OR = 4.393; 95% CI = 1.155‐16.708; P = 0.030) and less education (OR = 6.458; 95% CI = 1.675‐24.895; P = 0.007) experienced greater burdens than those with better health and more education. The greatest degree of stress occurred during the first 6 months of providing care and after 5 years of caregiving. Conclusions Overall occurrence of depression among caregivers is low. Caregivers with poorer health, less education and closer relationship with the patient bear a heavier burden. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these potential problems and provide information and support to ensure the best quality of life for both RA patients and their caregivers.