Caregiver burden: a concept analysis

The development of the concept of burden for use in research lacks consistent conceptualization and operational definitions. The purpose of this article is to analyze the concept of burden in an effort to promote conceptual clarity. The technique advocated by Walker and Avant is used to analyze this concept. Critical attributes of burden include subjective perception, multidimensional phenomena, dynamic change, and overload. Predisposing factors are caregiver's characteristics, the demands of caregivers, and the involvement in caregiving. The consequences of burden generate problems in care-receiver, caregiver, family, and health care system. Overall, this article enables us to advance this concept, identify the different sources of burden, and provide directions for nursing intervention.