[Alzheimer's disease: factors affecting caregivers' workload]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Context:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a significant challenge to caregivers, impacting their well-being and daily lives.
• Understanding the factors contributing to caregiver workload is crucial for developing effective support strategies.
• Previous research has identified various stressors, but the specific influence of patient characteristics requires further elucidation.

Purpose:

• To identify key factors influencing the workload experienced by caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients.
• To analyze the association between patient's age, cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination - MMSE), and caregiver burden using regression analysis.
• To explore the relationship between caregiver demographics and their perceived workload.

Summary:

• Caregiver workload, measured by Zarit's scale, was inversely associated with patient age and MMSE scores (p < 0.05).
• Workload peaked with moderate cognitive impairment (MMSE 14-16), indicating a complex relationship.
• Older patients (over 72) experienced less impact on caregiver workload, potentially due to established coping mechanisms and lifestyle adjustments.

Impact:

• Findings highlight the importance of patient's cognitive function and age in determining caregiver burden in Alzheimer's disease.
• Results can inform targeted interventions and support systems for caregivers, particularly those caring for younger patients or those with mid-stage cognitive decline.
• This research contributes to a better understanding of the psychosocial impact of Alzheimer's disease on family units.