Predictors of care burden among caregivers of patients with COVID-19

Abstract

Aim: To explore predictors of care burden among the caregivers of patients with COVID-19.

Design: The findings of this cross-sectional study were presented in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology statement.

Methods: The samples included 172 caregivers in Imam Reza and Farabi Hospitals, located in Kermanshah, Iran, who were enrolled in the study using convenience sampling. A demographic information form and the Caregiver Burden Inventory were administered. The data were collected between 13 May 202 and 20 August 2021.

Results: Of the caregivers, 62.8% (n = 108) were male and 71.5% (n = 123) were over 40 years old. Furthermore, 66.3% (n = 114) of caregivers had severe and very severe care burden, with a mean care burden of 78.9 ± 20.4 out of 120. A statistically significant difference was found between care burden and the variables of monthly income, health status, number of patients under care and residence status (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The caregivers experienced a high care burden, which can have harmful effects on them. Therefore, it is necessary to provide them with various forms of economic, psychological and social support.

Keywords: COVID-19; care burden; family caregiver.