Abstract

AIMS: This study is aimed at examining the burden of care and depression level among the family caregivers of client diagnosed with physical or mental disability. In addition, this study purposed to test the relationship between socio-demographic factors and level of depression and burden of care.

METHODS: Study design was a descriptive survey design. Study sample was 129 family caregivers of patients diagnosed with physical and mental disabilities in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Data collected using a pre-designed structured interviewing questionnaire including the Beck Depression Inventory scale (Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996) and Family Burden Interview Schedule.

RESULTS: Percentage of depression level ranged from 63% among caregivers of physically disorder clients to 69% among caregivers of mentally disorder clients. Moreover, there were many factors that may increase risk of depression such as old age of caregivers, spouse and caregivers who cared for their charges four hours or more per day. There was significant difference in depression level and burden of care as regard to nature of relative illness (p <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Policies and programs to alleviate the burden of care and to provide social support for these family caregivers are equally important for both family caregivers and their care receivers.

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