RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN CARE BURDEN, COPING BEHAVIORS, HEALTH STATUS, AND DEPRESSION OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF BEDRIDDEN PATIENTS

Abstract

               Objective: This research examined the relationships between care burden, coping behavior, health status and depression among caregivers of bedridden patients.

               Methods: The sample consisted of 270 caregivers of bedridden patients in a northeastern province of Thailand. Data were collected using a personal information questionnaire, the Jalowiec Stress Coping Scale, Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), Caregiver Depression assessment (HRSR-Scale), and Short Form Health Survey (SF-12). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficients.

               Results: The relationship between depression and coping behavior was negative and of low value (r = -.27, p < .01). The relationship between depression and care burden was positive and high (r = .64, p < .01). The relationship between depression and health status was negative and moderate (r = -.57, p < .01).

               Conclusion: The results of this study support Pearlin's concept of stress processes and may be used in promoting, preventing, and reducing depression in caregivers of bedridden patients.