Quality of Life of the Caregivers of Patients with Neurodegenerative Disorders, Miami Dade County, Florida
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47363/JADR/2026(3)115Keywords:
Caregivers, Neurodegenerative Disorders, Quality of Life, Mental Well-Being, Socio-Emotional Context, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, DementiaAbstract
Background: Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease, impact caregivers, influencing their quality of life and mental well-being. Understanding these perceptions is crucial for developing targeted support systems.
Purpose: This descriptive study aimed to explore caregivers' experiences with specific neurodegenerative disorders in Miami-Dade County, focusing on psychological distress, coping strategies, and socio-emotional context.
Methods: Employing a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, formal and informal caregivers above 18 years old, providing care for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, or dementia, and residing in Miami-Dade County were included. Data collection involved self-reported measures on caregiving characteristics, patients' emotional status, caregiver well-being, and overall health perception. Statistical analysis was accomplished with the IBM-SPSS version 29 (2022) statistical software package.
Results: This study presents preliminary findings from a diverse caregiver sample, predominantly female (79%), with varied educational backgrounds.
Caregivers reported emotional exhaustion, insomnia, and fatigue. Psychological symptoms showed nuanced associations with educational levels. Detailed demographics reveal marital status (52% married), caregiver types (95% informal), and relationships to care receivers (48% daughters). Frequency and percentage breakdowns are provided for caregiver burdens, patient emotional status, and health assessments, emphasizing the need for targeted support interventions.
Conclusion: This study contributes to knowing caregivers' experiences in specific neurodegenerative disorders, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions. While preliminary, these findings highlight the potential impact of educational background on caregiver well-being. Further research and targeted support programs are crucial to improving the overall quality of life for caregivers and patients facing these challenging conditions.
