Influence of caregiver burden on well-being of family member caregivers of older adults

Background Caregiving to older adults is one of the most important social issues associated with aging. While caregiving provides a suitable care and supportive environment for older adults, changes in the lives of caregiving family members also affect their health. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of care burden on the well-being of family members providing care for older adults. Methods The study used a cross-sectional design. The study sample included 363 family caregivers of older adults. Socio-demographic questionnaire form, Burden Interview and Caregiver Well-Being Scale were used as data collection tools. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to explore the predictors of well-being in the family caregivers of older adults. Results The caregiver burden mean score was 32.63 +/- 15.72 and Caregiver Well-Being Mean score was 159.38 +/- 24.55. Caregiver burden, perceived health status of the older adults, marital status, perceived health status of caregiver and social support of caregiver were found to be statistically significant predictors of well-being in family member caregivers of older adults. Caregiver burden level was found to be the strongest predictor of well-being in the family caregivers of older adults. Conclusion Results showed that caregiver burden had an important effect on well-being of the caregiver. For this reason caregiver burden should be considered during interventions for improving well-being in family caregivers of older adults. Findings of our study revealed the necessity of showing special attention to caregivers by healthcare professionals and the importance of conducting interventional studies that aim to reduce caregiver burden in order to promote well-being.