Elderly Caregivers Research Articles

Assessment of Care Giver Burden and Coping Strategies among Care Givers of Elderly

Introduction: Caregiver burden is experienced by a person who is taking care of a disabled orchronically ill, and an old age person in the family. Many caregivers experience burdens and usingvarious coping strategies in their day-to-day life. Objectives: The objective of the study was toassess the burden, coping strategies, correlation and association among care givers of elderly withtheir selected demographic variables. Methods: By using convenient sampling technique 303caregivers were recruited in the selected villages of Bardoli, Gujarat. After obtaining writtenconsent caregivers was interviewed. The data was collected on Elderlies and Caregiver’s socio-demographic data, Zarit Caregiver Burden Assessment and Brief COPE tools. Results: Most ofthem 181 (66.0%) caregivers had moderate level of burden and 92(30%) had high burden and only30 (10%) of care giver had mild burden. The 10% of the samples had low levels of coping, 30%high levels, and 60% of them with medium levels of coping orientation towards the elderly care.There was moderately positive correlation found between caregiver burden and coping strategies.There was a significant association between care giver burden with their age, care giver relationand time given of care giving. The study revealed that there was a significant association betweencare giver coping orientation with their age and occupation. Conclusion: The caregiver’s burden ismore common among caregivers who care for elderly. Caregivers had been found by using avoidantcoping strategies more than problem oriented coping strategies. The Caregiver burden and itsimpact with various coping strategies need to be explored in detail and measures need to be taken toreduce their burden.

Caregiver and Child Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Meta-Analysis.

Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is associated with adverse impacts on subsequent generations. The extent to which caregiver ACEs are associated with their child's ACE score is unclear. To meta-analytically examine the association between caregiver and child ACE score. Potential moderators of this association were explored. Systematic searches were conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINHAL from 1998, the year the ACEs questionnaire was published, to February 19, 2024. Inclusion criteria were that the ACEs questionnaire was completed for both caregiver and child, an effect size was available, and the study was published in English. Variables extracted included sample size and magnitude of association between caregiver ACEs and child ACEs, mean caregiver and child age, sex (% female), race and ethnicity, and informant of ACEs. Seventeen samples (4872 caregiver-child dyads) met inclusion criterion. Results revealed a large pooled-effect size between caregiver and child ACEs (r = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.25-0.41; P < .001), such that higher caregiver ACEs score was associated with higher child ACEs score. This association was stronger among studies with younger caregivers and studies that utilized caregiver-report compared with child self-report of ACEs. Many studies were conducted in North America with female caregiver samples, limiting generalizability beyond these populations. Caregiver ACEs were strongly associated with child ACEs. Prevention and intervention efforts for caregivers should be trauma informed and focused on bolstering protective factors that may break cycles of intergenerational risk.

Caregiving Satisfaction, Psychological Distress and Caregiver Burden in Family Caregivers of Dependent Older People: A Longitudinal Study.

Although a substantial amount of research has focused on negative aspects of caregiving, less research has been conducted investigating positive aspects of providing informal care. The aim of this study was to investigate the longitudinal association between caregiving satisfaction and psychological distress in informal carers of dependent older people, and whether this relationship is mediated by caregiver burden. Prospective longitudinal study with a probabilistic sample of 332 caregivers of older relatives, with data collected at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. We measured caregiving satisfaction, psychological distress, subjective caregiver burden and several covariates (caregivers' sex, age and objective caregiver burden). Data were analysed using generalised estimation equations with multiple imputation. The STROBE checklist was used to support the writing of this document. After controlling for covariates, caregiving satisfaction was significantly negatively associated with lower levels of subjective caregiver burden (B = -0.17, 95% CI: -0.23, -0.11) and emotional distress (B = -0.23, 95% CI: -0.36, -0.11). When subjective burden was included in the model, the relationship between caregiving satisfaction and psychological distress was no longer significant (B = -0.11, 95% CI: -0.23, 0.02), whereas the association between subjective burden and psychological distress remained (B = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57, 0.92). The Sobel test confirmed these results (p < 0.001), indicating that subjective caregiver burden mediates the relationship between caregiving satisfaction and psychological distress (complete mediation) over time. Caregiving satisfaction exerts a longitudinal protective effect on carers' psychological distress via subjective burden. Our findings indicate that interventions aimed at strengthening caregiving satisfaction may play a significant role in maintaining positive mental health outcomes for informal caregivers.

Influence of Coping, Esteem, and Resilience on Caregiver Distress in Pancreatic Cancer Patient-Caregiver Dyads.

Background/Objectives: Through survey and analysis of pancreas cancer patient-caregiver dyads, we aimed to identify patient and caregiver characteristics that influence and determine the impact of caregiver coping strategies, self-esteem, and resilience on caregiver distress. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational study including pancreatic cancer patients and their caregivers. Demographics of patients and caregivers were collected. Caregivers completed validated instruments (National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Distress Thermometer, Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA), Perceived Stress Scale 4 (PSS-4), Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Anxiety/Depression Short Form (PROMIS-Anxiety/Depression), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview (CBI-12), and Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE)) investigating anxiety, depression, perceived stress, caregiver burden, use of approach and avoidant coping, resilience, and self-esteem. Descriptive statistics, univariate, and multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the data. Results: One hundred and fourteen patient-caregiver dyads were included in this study. The majority of patients were male (55%), 65% of caregivers were female, and 64% of patients were receiving palliative intent treatment. Younger caregiver age, more personal care tasks, higher patient distress, and caregiving for a parent were characteristics related to caregiver avoidant coping. Fewer caregiving activities and early clinical stage were associated with caregiver approach coping. High caregivers' self-esteem was significantly associated with fewer personal care tasks to perform and with caregivers of patients with higher levels of education. Avoidant coping and low resilience were both significantly correlated to distress, anxiety, depression, caregiver burden, and perceived stress. Additionally, low self-esteem was associated with a high perceived caregiver burden. Conclusions: Overall, caregiver factors such as age, relationship with the patient, and number of care tasks and activities influence caregivers coping and self-esteem. Additionally, patient education and clinical stage impacted caregiver coping and self-esteem. Developing interventions to address caregiver coping, self-esteem, and resilience will prove beneficial in improving caregiver distress, anxiety, depression, burden, and perceived stress.

Intelligent Thermochromic Heating E-Textile for Personalized Temperature Control in Healthcare.

Heating electronic textiles (e-textiles) are widely used for thermal comfort and energy conservation, but prolonged heating raises concerns about heat-related illnesses, especially in the elderly. Despite advancements, achieving universal user satisfaction remains difficult due to diverse thermal needs. This paper introduces an intelligent thermochromic heating e-textile with an artificial intelligence (AI)-based temperature control system for optimized personal comfort and color indicators for elderly caregivers. The fabric integrates conductive yarn, temperature-induced discoloration yarn (TIDY), and polymeric optical fiber (POF) to visualize temperature changes, ensuring efficiency and comfort. Equipped with microcontrollers, ambient sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity, the system offers comprehensive intelligent heating solutions. An AI model, trained on data from 50 wearability test subjects, determines optimal heating temperatures (40-50 °C) with 5.083 mean squared error (MSE), showing a high correlation between predicted and actual comfort levels. This concept enhances thermal comfort and mitigates overheating risks, promising for wearable healthcare applications.

Prevalence of Teenage Parenthood and Subsequent Burden on Elderly Family Members in Bungoma North Sub-County, Kenya

The prevalence of teenage parenthood presents significant social and economic challenges, especially in developing countries, where it often leads to increased dependency on elderly family members. This paper assessed the prevalence of teenage parenthood and examined the resulting dependency burden on elderly caregivers in Bungoma North Sub-County. Hagel’s Theory of Responsibility and Theory of Reasoned Action were used to underpin the study. A cross-sectional study design was used, involving a sample of 143 teenage mothers and pregnant teenagers from 10 schools. Stratified random sampling involved dividing the population into subgroups of ten schools and then randomly selecting participants from each subgroup. This ensured that the sample is representative of the population across the different subgroups. The sample included girls who were either pregnant or had recently given birth. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, focusing on socio-demographic characteristics, caregiving arrangements, and family dynamics. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were employed to interpret the data. The findings revealed that elderly family members, particularly those aged 56 and above, bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities, with 27% of caregivers aged 66 or older. A high prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Bungoma North Sub County, Kenya, leads to significant reliance on elderly family members for childcare, placing strain on their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. This burden is further exacerbated by limited support from other family members and inadequate access to external resources, leaving elderly caregivers feeling socially isolated and financially strained. The study highlights the need for targeted support systems, including social services, caregiver training, and psychological support, to ease the caregiving burden. Additionally, enhanced programs addressing teenage pregnancy prevention and education are crucial to reducing the long-term dependency burden on elderly caregivers and keeping teenage girls in school.

Intersection between individual, household, environmental and system level factors in defining risk and resilience for children in Kenya's ASAL: A qualitative study.

Children growing up in arid and semi-arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) face heightened risks, often resulting in poor developmental outcomes. In Kenya, the arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) exhibit the lowest health and developmental indicators among children. Despite these risks, some children grow up successfully and overcome the challenges. However, there is limited comprehensive data on sources of risks and resilience in these children, particularly research that incorporates community perspectives and indigenous knowledge. Systematic documentation of factors influencing child outcomes is crucial for understanding the overall burden, informing policy and implementing targeted interventions. This study aimed at bridging this gap. The study was conducted in 10 ASAL counties in Kenya. Purposive and snowballing techniques were used to recruit 11 key informants per site with varied levels of involvement in early childhood development and primary caregivers. Using a semi-structured interview guide, 103 telephonic interviews were conducted between June and August 2022, involving 68 key informants and 35 caregivers. Thematic approach was used to analyze the data, using NVIVO software. The mean age of the participants was 44years (SD = 11 years). The findings, viewed through the lens of Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, reveal a complex interplay of contextual factors impacting children's development. These factors range from individual and biological aspects to family, community, systemic, and environmental level, including climatic challenges. Identified risk factors encompassed issues such as young caregiver's age, low literacy, mental health issues, drug abuse, domestic violence, malnutrition, poverty, lack of paternal involvement, early marriages, female genital mutilation, drought, heat stress, and insecurity. Nonetheless, sources of resilience include breastfeeding, immunization, responsive caregiving, family and community support, higher socio-economic status (SES), cultural practices, self-motivation, hard work, community role models, religious activities and quality service provision. Urgent attention is needed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children in ASAL regions. The study underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of risks while harnessing community strengths and resources to safeguard and promote the holistic development of these children.

DOES CAREGIVING HASTEN AGING? EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN TRIPLE-DUTY CAREGIVERS’ TRANSITIONS AND SUBJECTIVE AGE

Abstract Perceptions of aging serve as crucial indicators for evaluating positive aging. This study examines the relationship between various caregiving transition types and subjective aging over time. Utilizing data from the 2018 and 2020 waves of the China Longitudinal Aging Study, we examine six transition types, incorporating both intra- and extra-familial caregiving behaviors, by constructing three subjective aging change patterns: “Consistent over time”, “Accelerated growth”, and “Relative decline”. The findings reveal that sustained caregiving is associated with a relative decline in subjective age, with a more pronounced effect observed in the reduction of ongoing extramural caregiving. Caregiver role transitions, such as exiting caregiving and transitioning between intra- and extra-familial caregiving, lead to an accelerated increase in subjective age, while entering caregiving aligns subjective age with the passage of time. In the context of caregiving role transitions, a positive self-perception of aging enhances the subjective age of female caregivers, whereas a positive general aging attitude reduces the subjective age of male caregivers. The study underscores the significance of caregiving experiences as crucial predictive factors for subjective aging. Establishing comprehensive family support policies throughout the caregiving lifecycle, promoting voluntary caregiving participation, can contribute to enhancing adaptive aging

Characteristics and Expectations of Low-Paid Workers in the Care Services Sector in Poland

The article analyses the specific nature of work among elderly caregivers in Poland as a low-paid group and identifies these employees’ expectations towards employers. In the context of an aging society, which increases the demand for caregiving services, the low level of compensation and social prestige associated with this profession poses a significant challenge that may negatively impact employees’ engagement and job satisfaction. The study is based on literature review, a survey method directed at caregiving sector employees and statistical data analysis, which enabled a comprehensive identification of factors affecting their motivation and expectations. The results indicate the need to implement motivational strategies aimed at improving working conditions and enhancing job satisfaction among caregivers. Applying such solutions may contribute to increased productivity and reduced employee turnover in this professional group.

SOCIAL MEDIA–BASED BIBLIOTHERAPY FOR INFORMAL CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA: A PILOT RCT

Abstract Background Informal caregivers of individuals with dementia are often overlooked as they themselves experience mental health issues. This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of social media-based bibliotherapy in improving the mental health of informal caregivers. Methods A total of 60 informal caregivers were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to either the social media-based bibliotherapy group, which received eight weekly sessions of electronic bibliotherapy, or the usual care group, which only received routine services from community centers. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and immediately post-intervention. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, χ2 tests, and generalized estimating equations were used for quantitative data analysis. Results The average age of caregivers was 57.41 (SD, 13.63), with a majority being female (79.3%). Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The findings demonstrated that social media-based bibliotherapy was well received for informal caregivers, with WhatsApp being the preferred medium in this study. The efficacy on mental health (Wald χ2=8.918, p=.003) and all the subscales of stress (Wald χ2=4.198, p=.040), anxiety (Wald χ2=7.667, p=.006), depression (Wald χ2=9.127, p=.003) was statistically significant. The efficacy on caregiving appraisal was only significant on the perceived caregiving burden subscale (Wald χ2=4.954, p=.026). The efficacy on the mental component scale of health-related quality of life approached significance (Wald χ2=3.634, p=.057). Conclusions: The utilization of social media-based electronic bibliotherapy was well received among informal caregivers of individuals with dementia, demonstrating potential positive effects on their mental health within this specific cohort.

Externalizing Problems in Children: Examining the Role of Caregiver and Child Adversities and Parental Involvement

Previous research has shown that exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is associated with increased behavior problems in children. Few studies, however, have taken a multi-informant approach to examine how different factors involving both the child and caregiver affect children’s externalizing problems. Guided by Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, the current study examined how child age and gender, caregiver age, household income, child and caregiver adversity, and child and caregiver report of caregiver involvement were associated with children’s externalizing problems. The sample included 65 caregiver-child dyads recruited from community programs in the Midsouth, United States. Youth were aged 6-12 years and primarily identified as Black or African American (95.45%) and as boys (54.55%). Two linear regression models were run with caregiver-report of child externalizing problems as the dependent variable in both models. One model focused on child variables, including child age, child gender, child adversity, and child-report of parental involvement, while the other centered caregiver variables, including caregiver age, income, caregiver ACEs, and caregiver report of their own parental involvement. Only the caregiver model was significant, with more caregiver ACEs related to higher child externalizing problems. None of the other independent variables were related to child externalizing problems. These results demonstrate the impact of caregiver’s history of adversity on child functioning. Interventions that target children’s externalizing problems may benefit from incorporating an assessment of parent adversity history. Future research should explore underlying mechanisms that may explain this association to identify modifiable factors that could be included in treatments for youth experiencing externalizing problems. KEYWORDS: Intergenerational; Behavior Problems; Adverse Childhood Experiences; ACEs; Caregiver-child Dyads; Youth Functioning; Family Systems; Multi-informant

Over-supplement of vitamin D may cause delirium, abdominal distension, and muscle weakness in the elderly: A case report and literature review

Rationale: Vitamin D deficiency is common among the elderly due to limited sunlight exposure, increasing osteoporosis risk. Over-supplementation poses risks, especially with caregiver involvement. Patient concerns: Rising vitamin D overdose cases underscore the need for better education on safe intake and monitoring practices to prevent toxicity, particularly hypercalcemia from excessive doses. Diagnoses: This case report details the clinical presentation and management of a woman who exhibited progressive lower limb weakness, delirium, and abdominal distension over a 3-day period. Initial assessments ruled out intracranial hemorrhage but revealed significant electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and severe hypercalcemia. Upon further inquiry, it was discovered that the patient had consumed an excessive amount of liquid Vitamin D3 over the preceding 3 weeks, surpassing the threshold for vitamin D intoxication. Interventions: Intravenous fluid hydration was initiated to promote calcium excretion. Bisphosphonates and calcitonin were administered to reduce serum calcium levels. Electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hypomagnesemia, were corrected. Continuous monitoring and supportive care were provided in the geriatric ward. Outcomes: After these treatments, the patient’s electrolyte levels stabilized, and her symptoms, such as confusion and muscle weakness, gradually improved, leading to a full recovery. Lessons: This case underscores the importance of recognizing hypercalcemia, particularly in the elderly, where symptoms may manifest nonspecifically. Additionally, it highlights the potential risks associated with medication errors and inadvertent overdoses, particularly in situations involving elderly spousal caregivers.

PEMBERDAYAAN KELUARGA SEBAGAI CAREGIVER DALAM MENDAMPINGI LANSIA UNTUK MENCEGAH DEPRESI

The family has a very important and irreplaceable role in providing support and comprehensive care to the elderly. Empowering families as caregivers is a very important strategic step in efforts to prevent depression in the elderly. The activity took place from 13.30 to 15.00 WIB. Participants This activity was attended by 30 participants consisting of family members who have elderly people at home. The participants showed high enthusiasm during the counseling. The counseling material consisted of recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression in the elderly, the role of the family as a caregiver in accompanying the elderly, effective communication techniques with the elderly, activities that can be done with the elderly to prevent depression and How to manage stress as a caregiver. The Counseling Implementation Method was carried out using the Interactive Lecture method, Group Discussion, Demonstration and direct practice and Questions and Answers. Activity Results After attending the counseling, participants showed an increased understanding of the importance of the role of the family in preventing depression in the elderly, How to identify signs of depression in the elderly, effective communication strategies with the elderly - The right techniques for accompanying the elderly. Based on the evaluation results, 90% of participants stated that they were satisfied with the material presented and felt more prepared to carry out their role as elderly caregivers. Participants also expressed a desire to apply the knowledge gained in everyday life.

Investigating the effect of using a home safety training application by caregivers on accident risk management in the elderly.

The increasing elderly population is a complex and globally significant phenomenon impacting various sectors of society, including healthcare. By 2050, it is projected that one-fourth of Iran's population will be elderly. Falls are a major concern among the elderly, leading to physical and psychological injuries and imposing significant financial burdens on healthcare and social systems. Given the widespread acceptance of smartphones and mobile health applications, however limited research has been conducted on the effectiveness of mobile applications in training caregivers for home safety and accident prevention in elderly populations. This randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2022 in Mashhad, Iran. The sample consisted of 66 elderly caregivers, randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire and the Home Safety Self-Assessment Tool (HSSAT). The intervention group used a home safety educational application, while the control group received educational brochures. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and appropriate statistical tests. Sixty-two elderly caregivers participated in the study, with a mean age of 72±37.7years. The chi-square test showed no significant difference in gender distribution between the intervention and control groups (p=0.060). The majority of participants in both groups had a high school education. Before the training, there was no significant difference in the mean accident risk management scores between the two groups (p=0.713). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant time effect (F(1, 60)=408, p<0.001, Partial η2=0.872) and a significant group effect (F(1, 60)=5, p=0.025, Partial η2=0.081). Additionally, the interaction between time and group was significant (F(1, 60)=6, p=0.015, Partial η2=0.095), indicating a greater improvement in accident risk management scores in the intervention group compared to the control group. The use of home safety educational applications can effectively reduce the risk of accidents and improve preventive measures management among the elderly. These modern educational tools can alleviate the burden on healthcare systems and save costs associated with in-person training. Future research should continue exploring innovative educational methods to enhance the safety and well-being of the elderly population. This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (no. IRCT20210610051532N1) on 07/09/2021.

Polar Histogram Visualization of Acute Stress Disorder Scale Scores for Comprehensive Clinical Assessment.

The Acute Stress Disorder Scale (ASDS) is crucial for assessing acute stress disorder (ASD), especially in high-stress environments like Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Traditional methods struggle to interpret all 19 ASDS variables simultaneously. This study introduces a novel polar histogram visualization approach to enhance ASDS score analysis, focusing on elderly ICU caregivers. A polar histogram visualization for ASDS scores was developed using MATLAB. Data from healthy elderly controls (n=106) and elderly ICU caregivers (EC-ICU; n=309) were used to compare ASDS profiles. A subgroup of EC-ICU participants (n=109) received interventions on social support and positive coping strategies. Intervention effectiveness and stress dysregulation patterns were analyzed using this new technique and traditional statistical methods. The polar histogram effectively displayed all 19 ASDS variables simultaneously, revealing distinct patterns between healthy controls (mean ASDS score: 29.36) and EC-ICU participants (mean ASDS score: 62.61). This technique highlighted significant differences in stress profiles not apparent in conventional bar charts. Post-intervention, the EC-ICU subgroup showed a 5%-8% reduction across ten ASDS indicators related to avoidance, hyperarousal, and emotional distress. The most significant improvements were physical reactions to trauma reminders, hypervigilance, and sleep disturbances. This polar histogram approach offers comprehensive, intuitive visualization of ASDS scores, enhancing clinical interpretation and ASD assessment. Integrating multi-dimensional psychological indicators into a single visual framework enables a more precise analysis of stress states and intervention efficacy. The technique shows particular utility in identifying stress patterns in elderly ICU caregivers and evaluating targeted interventions. This innovative method has significant implications for developing personalized support strategies, improving ASD assessment, and advancing stress disorder research across clinical settings.

Deconstruction and Remodelling: A Grounded Theory Exploration of the Family Resilience of Disabled Elderly People in China.

This study aims to understand the family experiences of disabled elderly people facing adversity from the perspective of family resilience and to develop a theoretical model to explain the constitution of family resilience. Family resilience is the ability of families to cope with, adapt to, and recover from significant stressors and challenges. Although some studies have focused on disabled elderly people, the components of their family resilience have received little attention. A grounded theory. A total of 30 participants were selected by theoretical sampling, and all participants were from families with disabled elderly people in Chengdu, China. Data were obtained via semi-structured interviews. The COREQ checklist for qualitative research was followed. A theoretical model of family resilience for disabled elderly people was established based on three categories: family organisation, family beliefs, and family relationships. Family organisations include the organisation model and resources; family beliefs include coping styles and adversity remodelling; and family relationships include communication and atmosphere. These categories suggest that there are several similar components of family resilience for disabled elderly people, which can be used to understand how families cope with this challenging experience by adjusting their roles, resources, and perspectives. Our findings are believed to offer significant theoretical and practical implications for improving the resilience and well-being of families with disabled elderly members, improving the effectiveness of caregiving services, and guiding strategies for disabled elderly individuals, their families, caregivers, and researchers. Healthcare professionals must recognise that disability impacts not only the individual but also the entire family system. The process of disability is slowed by early intervention, and psychological counselling services are provided to relieve stress and anxiety. Training in practical skills can be provided to build social support networks to help them cope with challenges.

The Effectiveness of Compassion-Focused Therapy on Caregiver Burden and Psychological Flexibility in Caregivers of Alzheimer's Elderly

The Effectiveness of Compassion-Focused Therapy on Caregiver Burden and Psychological Flexibility in Caregivers of Alzheimer's Elderly

Does socioeconomic factors and child behavior contribute to caregiver's stress in families of children with disabilities in Jordan: A cross-sectional study.

This study explored whether socioeconomic factors and child behavior are associated with caregiver stress in families of children with disabilities aged 2 to 17 living in Jordan. This study employed a cross-sectional design using an online survey. The survey, distributed mainly on social media, consisted of questions on demographics, child disability using the Washington Group Short Set on Functioning (WG-SS), caregiver stress levels using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6), and child behavior using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Descriptive statistics, correlation testing (Pearson and Spearman tests), and stepwise multiple regression analysis were used to identify whether caregiver stress was associated with child disability and behavior and 4 socioeconomic factors (caregiver age, employment status, child disability, and child gender). In total, 161 caregivers completed the survey. Being older, employed, and having a female child were associated with less caregiver stress (P = .010, P = .017, and P = .009, respectively). Having a child with a higher disability score and more behavioral problems was associated with higher caregiver stress. Our findings highlight the importance of developing a comprehensive evaluation process to identify how child disability affects different areas of caregivers' lives, and interventions to address caregiver stress. We recommend implementing policies to increase access to mental health services and parenting resources, particularly for young and unemployed caregivers.

Discharge Readiness Among Primary Caregivers in Pediatric Medical-Surgical Units in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Background/Objectives: Preparing families to support children after hospital discharge is crucial, particularly due to the fragile health of pediatric patients and the care required at home. In this study, the aim was to assess the readiness for hospital discharge among primary caregivers of pediatric patients in medical-surgical units in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify factors influencing their preparedness. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 258 primary caregivers recruited from two hospitals in Jeddah: King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) and a Ministry of Health (MOH) hospital. A purposive sampling method was used. Data were collected through the Pediatric Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale (Ped-RHDS) and the Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale (QDTS), translated into Arabic. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and multiple regression analyses were employed to identify key predictors of discharge readiness. Results: Caregivers reported moderate to high readiness for discharge, with mean scores of 8.28 (SD = 2.65) for personal strength and 8.62 (SD = 2.26) for their child's strength. Knowledge scores averaged 7.49 (SD = 3.27). The quality of discharge teaching was higher at KAUH (M = 6.43, SD = 2.56) than at the MOH hospital (M = 5.48, SD = 2.89, p = 0.006). Caregiver age, child age, and discharge teaching quality were significant predictors of readiness (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In this study, the importance of discharge readiness is emphasized, highlighting the role of discharge education in enhancing preparedness. Addressing caregivers' specific needs, especially for younger children or prolonged stays, can improve readiness and reduce post-discharge complications.

Intensity of care and the health status of caregivers to elderly rural South Africans.

Informal caregivers play an indispensable role in and are often the sole source of care for older adults in low and middle-income settings worldwide. Intensive informal care predicts mortality and morbidity among caregivers in higher-income settings. However, there is limited evidence from poorer settings, including Africa countries, where caregiving is shared widely, including across generations. We therefore investigated caregivers' health status in rural South Africa. We conducted quantitative interviews with all household members and all non-household caregivers aged ≥12 (n=1012) of 106 older adults in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa. We used multivariable regression with care-recipient random intercepts to assess the relationships between four caregiving characteristics and both self-reported chronic conditions and self-reported health status, considering how caregiver age moderated each association. Over half of all caregivers reported at least one chronic health condition, despite half being aged under 40. Caregivers self-reporting the worst health status provided high hours of care. However, caregivers' health status was not significantly associated with weekly care quantity or history of caring. Those aged ≥40 who reported being a main caregiver had 52% increased odds of reporting poorer health compared to other same-aged carers (95% confidence interval: 0.99, 2.35), while having more chronic conditions was associated with being expected to act as a sole caregiver more often among caregivers aged ≤39. Greater caring responsibilities for older adults were not consistently associated with caregivers' health in a setting where poor health is common, and caregiving is spread widely. Longitudinal data is necessary to unpack possible explanations of these findings, and to determine whether intensive caregiving speeds downward health trajectories for carers.