María Paula Martín-Andrade, Aroa Camejo-Guerra, Dolores María Ruano-López, Raquel del Rosario Medina-Ponce, Andrea Duarte-Díaz, Beatriz Candela-Angulo, Francisco J. Navarro-Vázquez, Juan José Suárez-Sánchez, Lilisbeth Perestelo-Pérez, Vanesa Ramos-García, Ana Isabel Barreno-Estévez, Yolanda Alvarez-Perez

ABSTRACT

Background:

The increase in life expectancy and chronic diseases has raised the complexity and burden of caring for patients with chronic conditions. This study evaluates a group-based educational intervention aimed at caregivers of these patients, focusing on caregiver burden, mental health, quality of life, and health literacy.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental design with a control group was used. The experimental group participated in a 16-session workshop, while the control group received no intervention. Caregiver burden (Zarit Burden Interview, EZA), mental health (Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scales), quality of life (EQ-5D-5L), family caregiver quality of life (ICUB-97-R), and acquired knowledge were assessed before and after the workshop, as well as at a 3-month follow-up.

Results:

A total of 37 participants (mean age 55.2 years) took part, of whom 35.1% had been caregivers for more than 10 years. Results showed significant improvements in acquired knowledge post-intervention (p = 0.033) in favour of the experimental group. Within-group analyses showed a significant improvement in caregiver impact (ICUB-97-R burden subscale) in the experimental group after the intervention (p = 0.023), while the control group showed a significant worsening in caregiver burden and anxiety. At follow-up, significant improvements in anxiety and depression were observed in the experimental group. Overall, 78% of caregivers rated the workshop sessions positively.

Conclusion:

The group workshop showed beneficial effects on caregivers’ well-being and caregiving capacity. However, strategies are needed to maintain these benefits in the long term.

You can read the full article (in spanish) here.