Caregiving Activities and Outcomes Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With and Without Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia in California Caregiver Resource Centers
Publication Date
7-1-2025
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Research in Gerontological Nursing
Volume
18
Issue
4
DOI
10.3928/19404921-20250416-01
First Page
168
Last Page
179
Abstract
PURPOSE: To describe characteristics and outcomes of family caregivers for persons with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia (PD/LBD) and compare them to those of other family caregivers. METHOD: Using a California statewide database, we examined caregiver characteristics and outcomes (strain, loneliness, worse health, and depressive symptoms) and compared them by care recipient diagnosis (PD/LBD, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, or other chronic conditions) using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: PD/LBD caregivers were more likely to identify as female, married, and college-educated; engage in high-intensity caregiving; and report their care recipient wakes them or others up at night. In multivariable models, PD/LBD caregiving was associated with worse health. Among PD/LBD caregivers, performing medical/nursing tasks was associated with higher odds of strain, loneliness, worse health, and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION: PD/LBD caregivers are a distinct group who often experience high-demand caregiving. Tailored support can help address the unique needs of this population.
Department
Nursing
Recommended Citation
Robin L. Whitney, Janice F. Bell, Everlyne Ogugu, Shikha Bhurtel, Benjamin M. Link, Orly Tonkikh, Kathleen Kelly, and Heather M. Young. "Caregiving Activities and Outcomes Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With and Without Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia in California Caregiver Resource Centers" Research in Gerontological Nursing (2025): 168-179. https://doi.org/10.3928/19404921-20250416-01
