This literature review examined burden, depressive symptoms, and perceived health reported by male caregivers of persons with end stage renal disease. These studies suggest that male caregivers often experience negative outcomes. Compared to non-caregivers, male caregivers had higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. Qualitative studies suggest depression is common and associated with conflict between caregiving responsibilities and work, poor caregiver health, and fears about the future outcomes of relatives for whom they provide care. Future research will assist healthcare providers to identify at-risk male caregivers and develop effective interventions to support this understudied caregiver population.
Keywords: burden; caregivers; depression; end stage renal disease (ESRD); male.
Copyright© by the American Nephrology Nurses Association.