Is the Functional Dependence of Older Adults with Intellectual Disabilities in Southern Brazil Associated with Their Informal caregivers’ Perception of Quality of Life and Stress?

Introduction The functional dependence of older adults with intellectual disabilities can significantly affect both their own quality of life and that of their caregivers. This study analyzed the impact of functional dependence on caregivers’ stress and quality of life in Southern Brazil.Methods A quantitative observational study was conducted with 605 informal caregivers of older adults with intellectual disabilities. Instruments included the Functional Independence Measure, WHOQOL-Bref, and Perceived Stress Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression (p < .05).Results Caregivers had a mean age of 57.8 years and reported moderate stress levels. Functional dependence explained a small proportion of variance in stress (R2 = 0.02), with locomotion showing a paradoxical effect: greater independence in locomotion was linked to higher caregiver stress. For quality of life, functional dependence explained between 3% and 13% of the variance. Mobility/transfer was negatively associated with all domains, while locomotion showed positive associations only with relationships (β = 0.17) and environment (β = 0.22).Conclusion Functional dependence in older adults with intellectual disabilities is a relevant but limited explanatory factor for caregiver outcomes. Its effects are differentiated: mostly negative for quality of life, but positive in specific domains such as relationships and environment. These findings underscore the complexity of caregiving dynamics and the need for tailored interventions to support caregivers.