Study of Caregiver Burden in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis

Increased caregiver burden undermines caregivers' mental and physical health and is an under recognized but critical aspect for the success of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). This study was undertaken to quantify and identify the factors determining CAPD caregiver burden.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 51 caregivers of CAPD patients visiting the centers from July to August 2023. Caregiver burden score was determined using "Zarit Burden Interview" by interview method.

The mean age of caregivers was 42.8 ± 10.83 years with 52.9% females. The mean Zarit burden score of the caregivers was 29.18 ± 11.81. Younger caregivers experienced significantly higher burden (r = -0.34, P = 0.013). Lesser educated caregivers were perceiving a higher burden. Lower socioeconomic strata people had significantly higher burden (P < 0.001) and especially so when there was a loss in income attributed to caregiving. Patients who were covered by state insurance experienced a notably lower caregiver burden (19.2 ± 6.1) when compared to those who were self-financed (32.4 ± 11.08) or had company insurance (37.2 ± 13.6). Gender, religion, marital status, and type of family had no bearing on the caregiver burden.

Age, loss of income, education, and socioeconomic status are important determinants of caregiver burden. State sponsored program lowers caregiver burden significantly. A CAPD program should address these factors to mitigate caregiver burden.