The Quality of Life of Caregivers of People with Type 2 Diabetes Estimated Using the WHOQOL-BREF Questionnaire

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) poses a growing global health challenge, impacting patients’ and their caregivers’ well-being. This study investigates the influence of T2D complications on caregivers’ quality of life (QoL) using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, accounting for factors like age, disease duration, and control. The research involved 382 T2D patients and 300 caregivers from Vuk Vrhovac University Clinic for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire assessed caregivers’ QoL across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Complications, including retinopathy, neuropathy, and kidney disease, were examined for their effects on QoL. Patients’ age impact, gender differences, and disease duration were analyzed. T2D complications had varying impacts on different QoL domains. Caregivers of patients with multiple complications showed significant social functioning impairment. Those without complications reported lower psychological health. Age correlated with poorer physical health scores. Female caregivers rated higher in psychological and environmental health. Disease duration and T2D control had no significant impact on caregiver QoL. Caregivers’ concerns included medication adherence and worry about their partner’s health. This study illustrates the delicate interplay between T2D patients and caregivers, highlighting the multifaceted effects of chronic illness. Comprehensive healthcare techniques that address emotional and social components in addition to medical care are critical for improving the well-being of both patients and their caregivers. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of T2D care dynamics, advocating for empathetic and all-encompassing healthcare practices.