Mental Health of Caregivers of Elderly Patients: The Impact of Psychotropic Drugs on Quality of Life, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress

Abstract

Caregiver burden is a common impairment resulting from coping with the physical dependence and mental incapacity of the care subject. This study aimed to assess the self-perception of formal and informal caregivers of elderly patients regarding burden, quality of life, anxiety and depression, stress, and the impact of psychotropic drugs. The questionnaire was disseminated in nursing homes and caregivers' associations. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS V.28, with a significance level of α = 0.05. The questionnaires used were the Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales, the Zarit Scale, the Satisfaction with Medication Treatment Questionnaire and Quality of Life. The sample consisted mainly of female individuals, with an average age of 52 years, residing in the northern region of the country and mostly married. Around half of the respondents admitted taking some psychotropic drug, namely selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor(s) or benzodiazepines. Caregivers who use medication report being moderately satisfied with it, and global satisfaction was correlated with the convenience and effectiveness of the medication. Caregivers also demonstrate that being a caregiver has a high impact on their quality of life, and informal caregivers are those who report a more severe state of depression, anxiety, and stress. The current study highlights the need to assess mental health status and the impact of pharmacotherapy on the quality of life of caregivers of elderly patients.