Introduction. Past studies have documented the significant role of informal caregivers in caring for the chronically ill and disabled. These studies also have found that women assume most of the caregiving load. This study compared female and male informal caregivers in terms of their sociodemographic, relational, physical and mental health characteristics; caregiving activity and intensity; and the difficulties and challenges they face as long-term care providers. Methods. Telephone interviews were conducted with a randomly selected nationally representative cross-section of 1,002 (54% women and 46% men) informal caregivers. Weight-adjusted descriptive and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results. Compared to male caregivers, female caregivers were more likely to be at least 65 years old, married, the primary caregiver, providing higher intensity care in terms of more frequent assistance with a greater number of ADLs and IADLs, performing more complex care, having difficulty with providing care while balancing caregiving with other responsibilities, educated beyond high school, and experiencing unmet needs with care provision. However, female caregivers were less likely than male caregivers to be employed. In addition, female caregivers were significantly more likely than male caregivers to have given up respite activities, report that their physical health had suffered, and engage in increased religious activities as a coping strategy. Conclusions. Female caregivers experience considerable stress resulting from providing a lot of intensive and complex care, in the midst of their own deteriorating health. This, coupled with a greater likelihood of giving up respite activities, suggests that female caregivers are in need of supportive services.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe characteristic differences between female and male informal caregivers; 2. Describe differences in caregiving workload between female and male informal caregivers; and 3. Discuss the mental health and social support needs of female informal caregivers.
Keywords: Caregivers, Women
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Visiting Nurse Service of New York
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.