PND149 - FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CAREGIVERS’ INTENTION TO INSTITUTIONALIZE PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract

Dementia is one of the main reasons for institutionalization among the elderly. Few studies have explored factors associated with the caregivers’ desire to institutionalize (DIS) the person with dementia (PWD). The objective of this study is to identify modifiable and non-modifiable psychosocial and sociodemographic factors associated with a caregiver’s DIS. Cross-sectional data of 355 informal caregivers (CG) of community-dwelling PWD were analyzed. Several characteristics in CG and PWD were identified to include in a multivariable regression model based on the purposeful selection method. The following modifiable factors were positively associated with DIS based on the regression model: higher caregiver burden (OR=1.052), being affected by behavioral problems (OR=1.396), and respite care use during the last 6 months (OR=3.721). Positively associated non-modifiable factors were: caregiver older age (OR=1.043), being professionally active (OR=0.297), and higher educational level of the caregiver (OR=2.662). Cohabitation between the dyads (OR=0.08) and change of professional situation (OR=0.325) were negatively associated with a DIS. First of all, the independent association of several caregiver and patient characteristics with DIS reconfirms the need for multicomponent strategies, especially support aimed at decreasing burden and in learning coping strategies to deal with behavioral disturbances. Also, caregivers need to be well informed about support options, such as respite care services, in a structured and easy accessible way. Finally, special attention should be given to older and working caregivers. The latter by developing flexible and adaptive working conditions.