Factors associated with the quality of life of family carers of people with dementia: A systematic review. Issue 5 (3rd February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Farina, Nicolas; Page, Thomas E.; Daley, Stephanie; Brown, Anna; Bowling, Ann; Basset, Thurstine; Livingston, Gill; Knapp, Martin; Murray, Joanna; Banerjee, Sube
• Is Part Of: Alzheimer's & dementia. Volume 13:Issue 5(2017)
• Page Start: 572
• Page End: 581
• Publication Date: 2017-02-03
• Subjects: Quality of life -- Family carers -- Family caregivers -- Informal carers -- Dementia -- Measurement Alzheimer's disease -- Systematic review; Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; Alzheimer Disease -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Periodicals; Démence; Maladie d'Alzheimer; Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); 616.83
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2016.12.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1552-5260

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Family carers of people with dementia are their most important support in practical, personal, and economic terms. Carers are vital to maintaining the quality of life (QOL) of people with dementia. This review aims to identify factors related to the QOL of family carers of people with dementia. Methods: Searches on terms including "carers, " "dementia, " "family, " and "quality of life" in research databases. Findings were synthesized inductively, grouping factors associated with carer QOL into themes. Results: A total of 909 abstracts were identified. Following screening, lateral searches, and quality appraisal, 41 studies ( n = 5539) were included for synthesis. A total of 10 themes were identified: demographics; carer–patient relationship; dementia characteristics; demands of caring; carer health; carer emotional well‐being; support received; carer independence; carer self‐efficacy; and future. Discussion: The quality and level of evidence supporting each theme varied. We need further research on what factors predict carer QOL in dementia and how to measure it.