Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
Corso di laurea in infermieristica - Sede di Modena
| Thesis Title | Caregiver burden in dementia: survey of care burden and home nurse's role |
|---|---|
| Name | Ramillano Fatima Angela |
| Supervisor(s) | Cottafavi Katiuscia |
| Academic Year | |
| Thesis type | Non research thesis |
Abstract
Problem. Dementia is characterized by the progressive loss of cognitive functions that cause loss of autonomy and dependence on others. Assistance to the person with dementia requires the total involvement of the caregiver and can lead to feeling the weight of burden.
Objective. The survey aims to notice caregivers burden related to home care for people with dementia and to identify what caregivers' characteristics may affect it.
Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Nursing Home Care Service of Carpi District (Modena). The sample consists of 40 caregivers. Data collection about the characteristics of caregivers was done through an ad hoc sheet. Caregiver Burden Inventory was used to assess the caregiver burden. Statistical data processing was done with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 program.
Results. The quantitative survey has led to the need for additional support for caregivers during assistance. The time-dependent burden was the dimension that most influences the burden, while the emotional dimension is the least influential. Furthermore, the investigation has shown that the relationship with the assisted and the period of caregiver's assistance time negatively affects the burden
perceived.
Conclusion. The survey confirms the presence of an important caregiver burden. Scientific literature emphasizes the importance of supporting caregivers of dementia, in which nurse play an important role in all types of available interventions, from understanding needs, activating other health professionals,
assessing caregiver burden, communication, information and training and to end-of-life care.