Knowledge Attitude Practices and Burden among Family Caregivers of Elderly Persons with Mental Illness
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51333/njpsw.2021.v22.i1.294Abstract
Background: Despite improvements in mental health literacy, public knowledge and attitudes have remained stable over time. The caregivers of elderly persons with mental illness face a significant burden of care hence the understanding of caregiver burden and practices to deal with the same is very crucial in formulating a comprehensive care plan for the elderly with mental illness. Objectives: To study knowledge, attitude and practices towards mental illness among family caregivers of elderly persons with mental illness and to assess family burden and wellbeing among them. Methods & Materials: It was a cross-sectional institution based descriptive study. Using consecutive sampling methods, 50 caregivers of elderly people with mental illness, fulfilling the selection criteria were recruited and assessed using tools like Family Burden Scale, Public Perception of Mental Illness Questionnaire, Carer Experiences Scale, Screening Tool for Assessment of Psychosocial Problems and PGI General Wellbeing Scale. Ethical clearance was taken from the institutional ethical committee. Result: Men on average are more likely to be involved as caregivers and felt significant burden due to disruption in routine family activities. Knowledge and awareness was found to be poor among caregivers, followed by social support and expressed emotions. Negative life events were perceived to be the main cause of mental illness as there was little knowledge and awareness about it. The negative experience of caregivers is highest in assistance from government and non-government organisations and activities outside caring. More than half of the caregivers had lower wellbeing. Conclusion: There is a need to address lack of knowledge, negative attitude and practices, and high burden among family caregivers of elderly persons with mental illness.
Keywords: Knowledge, attitude, practices, burden, family caregivers, elderly, mental illness
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