The Health and Well-Being of Caregivers of Technologically Dependent Children. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chan, Yoke Hwee; Lim, Carmen Zhi-Ruo; Bautista, Dianne; Malhotra, Rahul; Østbye, Truls
• Is Part Of: Global pediatric health. Volume 6(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: pediatric -- home care -- caregiver health; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1177/2333794X18823000
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2333-794X

Abstract

Caregivers of technology-dependent children face considerable responsibilities. This study examined the association of 2 child-related stressors—functional status and use of mechanical ventilator—with 2 domains of family caregiver well-being—depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale [CES-D]) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and family function (PedsQL Family Impact Module). The secondary objective was to determine whether these associations were moderated by caregiver-perceived social support. Structured interviews were conducted with 88 primary family caregivers of technology-dependent children in Singapore. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to assess the primary and secondary objectives. A total of 44.3% of caregivers were at high risk of clinical depression. Moderately poor child functional status was associated with more caregiver depressive symptoms. Perceived social support moderated this association. Family caregivers of technology-dependent children have high levels of depressive symptoms and relatively poor HRQOL and family functioning. Enhancing caregivers' social support is important for their well-being.