Characteristics of Burden Associated with Caring for Older Family Members with Dysphagia Across Time
2024

Burden of Caring for Family Members with Swallowing Difficulties

Sample size: 4662 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Shune Samantha, Werbeloff Merle, Namasivayam-MacDonald Ashwini

Hypothesis

The study explores the characteristics of burden associated with caring for individuals with dysphagia over time.

Conclusion

Caregivers of family members with dysphagia report higher levels of emotional and physical burden compared to those caring for individuals without dysphagia.

Supporting Evidence

  • 16-27% of caregivers reported caring for family with dysphagia at any given time.
  • Caregivers of family with dysphagia reported higher emotional and physical burden.
  • Caregivers of family with dysphagia felt they had little time for themselves.

Takeaway

Taking care of family members who have trouble swallowing can make caregivers feel more stressed and sad than those who don’t have this issue.

Methodology

Data was analyzed from multiple surveys of caregivers using statistical methods to assess burden levels.

Participant Demographics

Caregivers included spouses and children of community-dwelling individuals aged 65 and older.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0636

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