재가 치매노인의 증상에 따른 가족의 부담감 및 전문적 도움 요구

Abstract

This study was to investigate the degree of family caregivers` burden in taking care of the elderly with dementia, and identify their needs for a professional help. Method: This descriptive study was conducted using the structured questionnaire. The subjects were 150 families to care for the elderly with dementia at home. Result: The level of burden was significantly higher in the family caregivers with severe or moderate levels of behavioral problems than the caregivers with mild behavioral problems of the elderly with dementia. That was also significantly higher in the family caregivers with high or moderate dependence on their family in ADL of the elderly compared to those with a low dependence on their family for ADL. The family members who care for the elderly with moderate or mild behavioral problems asked to have more professional help compared to the caregivers caring for the elderly with severe behavioral problems. Conclusion: Health care providers should focus on education and counseling for the family caregivers who care for the patients with different levels of behavioral problems and limited-activities of daily living. In addition, the assessments and interventions for a professional help are needed for family caregivers in the early caring stage to decrease their burden.