Prevalence of depression among caregivers of patients receiving palliative care in Kenyatta national hospital
Abstract
Background: Chronically ill and end of life patients are increasingly being cared for in the
home by their families, friends, or neighbours. As care has shifted from the hospital to the
home, the role of family caregiver has been transformed into a complex, multifaceted
responsibility which may have consequences on the mental health of primary caregivers.
Studies have shown that 40 to 70 percent of caregivers experience symptoms of depression
(7). Identifying caregivers with depression is therefore necessary for various interventions to
be considered.
The general objective was to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms in caregivers
of patients undergoing palliative care (most of whom are patients suffering from cancer) to
determine their socio-demographic characteristics associated with depressive symptoms. The
population comprised of caregivers of patients undergoing palliative care at the Kenyatta
National Hospital. It was a cross-sectional study. Questionnaires were administered using
Beck’s Depression Inventory and a researcher designed socio-demographic characteristics
questionnaire of the caregiver.
Data was analyzed using SPSS version 18 and statistical data analysis was carried out.
Results were presented using frequency tables, bar charts and pie charts.
The results showed that 62.7% of the caregivers presented with symptoms of depression. This
is four times higher as compared to the general population. The severity of the depressive
symptoms ranged from mild to severe with the majority experiencing symptoms of severe
depression. Spousal caregivers had the highest prevalence of depressive symptoms followed
by those who were taking care of their children.
Recommendation includes having healthcare providers do routine screening for depression in
family caregivers and not just on patients alone. Respite care also provides a temporary relief
to the caregiver and should be instituted in the care of the terminally ill. There should be
advocacy for policy change for flexible employment arrangement for family caregivers who
may need time off from work.
Publisher
University of Nairobi