Perceived role overload and physical symptom experience among caregivers of older adults: The moderating effect of social support

Abstract

We investigated the association between perceived role overload and physical symptom experience, and the potential moderating effect of social support among caregivers of older adults. We analyzed data of 1,471 caregivers obtained from the 2017 National Study of Caregiving. In the survey, participants were assessed for physical symptoms (pain, limited leg strength, and low energy), symptom-related activity limitations, perceived role overload, and informal/formal support sources. We performed multiple logistic regression analyses with interaction terms. Caregivers who perceived higher role overload were more likely to experience the physical symptoms and frequent limited activities due to the symptoms. The associations of perceived role overload with pain and low energy, respectively, were attenuated among caregivers with high informal support. The moderating effect of formal support appeared to be the opposite in relation to pain. Caregivers who perceived high burden may benefit from their informal support to prevent detrimental effects of caregiving on physical health.