Mental health impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on patients with neurodegenerative diseases and perceived family caregiver burden in Lima, Peru
Author(s)
Maisie Bailey
Bettsie Garcia
Ximena Aguilar
Danilo Coronel Sanchez
Date Issued
1 de enero de 2024
Type
Article
Volume
14
Issue
1
Start Page
e3361
End Page
e3361
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Neurodegenerative diseases lead to difficulties with functional activities. In Peru, most caregivers are family members. Little is known about the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on caregivers in Peru. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, prospective study of family caregivers of dependent patients with dementia or Parkinson's Disease in Lima, Peru. A caregiver burden and mental health questionnaire was administered to the caregiver. RESULTS: We enrolled 48 caregivers (65% females, mean ± SD age 49.0 ± 12.3 years); 70% of patients had dementia. Nearly 40% of caregivers reported having full-time jobs, and 82% felt overwhelmed with almost 75% dedicating more time to caregiving during the pandemic. Caregivers perceived patients felt lonelier (52%), had an increase in hallucinations (50%), or forgetfulness (71%) compared to pre-pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights that perceived caregiver burden and patient behavioral symptoms may have been exacerbated during the pandemic. In countries such as Peru, more caregiving resources and interventions are needed.
Subjects