Abstract

Background                                                                                                                                                                

Exploration of issues surrounding informal caregiving is critical for targeted interventions. The objective of this study was to examine the characteristics of caregivers and compare with non-caregivers as regards health status.

Methods                                                                                                                                                                                 

We used the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System population -based data for the year 2021 (N = 3,640) to explore for the first-time characteristics of Delaware caregivers. Data were weighted on the basis of population estimates accounting for the complex sampling methodology.

Results                                                                                                                                                                                      

18.5% (95% CI, 16.7%-20.4%) of respondents were caregivers.  They were significantly more likely to be above 50 years, female, white, with higher income and health insurance. 34% were providing care for a parent and 22% cared for a spouse. Most common care recipient diagnoses reported were Alzheimer’s disease (13%), followed by cancer and heart disease. Significantly more caregivers reported poor health status.

Conclusions                                                                                                                                                                    

Caregiving is an important public health issue. Delaware is one of the fastest aging states and caregiving trends are projected to increase.  Understanding the characteristics can help enhance strategies that support caregiving role, in turn improving the ability of recipients to experience an improved quality of life.

Main messages:

1. Caregiving burden will increase as the population ages.
2. Critical to understand caregiving characteristics to facilitate and inform strategies such as evidence-based programs for caregivers.