Effects of supporting patients with dementia: A study with dyads

Purpose This study aimed to examine the factors associated with the development of higher burden in informal caregivers of patients with dementia, using dyadic data. Design and Methods Seventy-two dyads of patients with dementia and their informal caregivers were assessed, the former in terms of behavioral-psychological symptoms and autonomy, the latter in terms of burden and individual needs. Findings Caregivers at risk for developing higher burden are those who are female, whose care recipient present psychiatric symptoms and lower autonomy, and those who recognize the need for more information/support. Practice Implications Interventions should offer caregivers the tools to provide care, maintaining their psychological well-being. Interventions should target not only common aspects of caregiver burden but also the specificities of caring for a person with dementia.