Abstract 83: Self-Reported Characteristics and Caregiving Responsibilities Among Caregivers Supporting Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common form of cardiac dysrhythmia and a strong stroke risk factor. Due to the nature of the disease and its treatment, many patients may require caregiver assistance. The purpose of this study was to describe the self-reported characteristics and caregiving responsibilities of caregivers supporting patients with AF. Methods: A survey of caregivers providing care to AF patients in the United States was administered. Caregivers ≥ 18 years of age providing care for adults who were currently diagnosed with AF and aged ≥ 55 years qualified for survey participation. Participants completed a 50-minute online survey during 12/10-12/28/2010. Survey questions addressed a variety of topics such as population characteristics and caregiving responsibilities/burden. The data were weighted on demographic characteristics to represent the real world population of AF patients and caregivers. Weighted results percentages are reported. Results: The survey was conducted among 200 caregivers. Approximately 64% of the caregivers were female, mean age was 55 years, and 83% were Caucasian. Forty-three percent of caregivers were currently employed and median household income was $42,900. The relationship to the patient was reported as spouse or partner by 43% of caregivers, and 34% of caregivers were a child or child-in-law of the patient. Additionally, 63% of caregivers reported currently living with the patient. Caregivers reported several caregiving responsibilities, including going to doctor visits (84% of caregivers), going to monitoring clinics and getting lab tests (53% of caregivers), and helping patients take medications (54% of caregivers). Furthermore, 45% of caregivers reported making treatment decisions as a caregiving responsibility. Conclusions: Caregivers of AF patients provide support in various ways, including treatment decision-making. Given the role of caregivers in the lives of AF patients, understanding the caregiver population and their burden may be important for optimal care of AF patients. Inclusion and education of caregivers with regard to patient care, including treatment decision making and modalities to decrease burden, may facilitate optimal care management of AF patients.