[Perception of stress by caregiving relatives of dementia patients]

The increasing interest in research on burden and health risks of family caregivers was furthered by the increasing prevalence rate of dementias in the elderly and by the fact that 80-90% of the demented are cared for by near family members. The present paper presents some results of a study investigating stress-related symptoms of family caregivers. From a clinical perspective these results point to needed interventions for supporting the caregivers. Specific burden components, depression, and body complaints were assessed in n = 70 family caregivers of dementia patients. A substantial degree of social isolation, depressive disorders, and physical complaints could be found. The level of burden experienced was not directly related to severity of dementia and to impairment of the demented or to structural conditions of the care (degree and length of care). Differences were observed between spouse caregivers and other relatives; spouses suffer more psychosomatic complaints and depression.