The Burden of Caregivers of Patients After Hip Replacement and Its Impact on the Cost of Living of the Family

Aim: The aim of this study was the evaluation of the degree of burden of caregivers of patients with hip fracture surgery and the assessment of its impact on their cost of living. Material and Method: This is a cross-sectional study and the study sample, which was a sample of convenience, included 100 caregivers of patients after hip replacement from February to May 2019 at the General Hospital of Thessaloniki "G. Gennimatas" in Greece. The main tools of the survey were the Bakas Caregiving Outcomes Scale (BCOS) Care Outcome Scale and a Questionnaire used for measuring rehabilitation costs in trauma patients adjusted for the needs of the present study. Results: Of the 100 caregivers in the sample, 35% were male, 65% women and children of patients. Most caregivers worked full-time (47%), or had retired (39%). The costs incurred by the carers, which were not covered by the insurer, were, with the highest concerns, the rehabilitation center, the services of another caregiver, the services of an exclusive nurse, and physiotherapy. Conclusions: Informal caregivers often fill the gaps and shortcomings of the health systems of many countries, saving large sums of money. The state should take care of consolation leave to caregivers so that they can provide the necessary assistance to their people, thereby reducing their burden. The development of ambulatory care would offer such important and necessary respite for caregivers, having a positive impact on the care and course of the patient.