Abstract
ABSTRACTObjectives: Using a sample of dementia caregivers, we compared the diagnostic utility of the various short versions of the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) with the original scale to identify the most optimal one. Next, we established externally validated cutoffs for the various ZBI versions using probable depression cases as a reference standard.Methods: Caregivers (N = 394; 236 males; Agemean = 56 years) were administered the ZBI and a self-report depression measure. Participants who exceeded the cutoff for the latter were identified as probable depression cases. For each of the ZBI versions, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted against probable depression cases. The area under these ROC curves between the short versions and the original were then compared using a non-parametric approach.Results: Compared to the original ZBI, the AUROC were similar for the 6-item, 7-item, and two 12-item versions, but significantly worse for the other short variants. The sensitivity and specificity of the cutoffs for all ZBI versions ranged from 77.3% to 85.2% and 60.1% to 79.8%, respectively.Conclusions: The original ZBI had good utility in identifying probable depression in caregivers, while the 6-item variant can be a useful alternative when short versions are preferred.
Highlights
As the prevalence of dementia soars due to the rapidly aging populations in developed countries, an increasing number of people will have to care for a loved one with dementia and undertake its associated burdens
As a result of such long term burden, meta-analytic research have documented that caregivers, relative to non-caregivers, are more likely to suffer from depression and physical illnesses, as well as experience a decrease in self-efficacy and subjective well-being (Pinquart & So€rensen, 2003)
The need to assess caregivingrelated burden cannot be understated. Such assessments help inform the clinician if appropriate interventions are needed and the lived experience with dementia for both the caregiver and person with dementia (PWD)
Summary
As the prevalence of dementia soars due to the rapidly aging populations in developed countries, an increasing number of people will have to care for a loved one with dementia and undertake its associated burdens. The Zarit Buden Interview (ZBI; Zarit & Zarit, 1987) is one of the most widely used measures to assess caregiver burden Since its inception, this 22-item scale has been translated into many languages and used in many countries across a diverse range of caregivers and patient populations; meta-analytic research have suggested the ZBI to be reliable across the diverse contexts in which it has been used in (Bachner & O'Rourke, 2007). Hebert, Bravo, and Preville (2000) obtained another 12-item version by carrying out an EFA based on the Whitlatch et al (1991) two-factor model and selected items which constitute the most parsimonious structure of the two-factor model These studies were carried out on dementia caregiver populations. 18- 14- 12- 12- 8- 7- 6- 4- 1item item item item item item item item item
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
