Caregiving Activities and Outcomes Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With and Without Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia in California Caregiver Resource Centers

Robin L. Whitney, Janice F. Bell, Everlyne Ogugu, Shikha Bhurtel, Benjamin M. Link, Orly Tonkikh, Kathleen Kelly, Heather M. Young

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)168-179
Number of pages12
JournalResearch in gerontological nursing
Volume18
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2025

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© SLACK Incorporated.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Nursing
  • Gerontology
  • Health Policy
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

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