Caregiving burdens of task time and task difficulty among paid and unpaid caregivers of persons living with dementia

Background: Demands of caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) are often influenced by the context of their caregiving situation. This study examines common and unique factors associated with caregiving burden in terms of task time and task difficulty among paid and unpaid caregivers of PLWD. Methods: Cross-sectional baseline survey data were analyzed from 107 paid and unpaid caregivers of PLWD participating in a larger NIH-funded study assessing the feasibility of using a novel in-situ sensor system. Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale constructs of task time and task difficulty served as dependent variables. Two least squares regression models were fitted, controlling for contextual items related to the caregiver, care recipient, and caregiving logistics. Results: = 0.002). Discussion: Results reinforce the relationship between caregiver burden and mental health impacts. While the care recipient's disease profile and needs were drivers of task time burden, which may also require coordination with other paid caregivers, task difficulty was emotionally driven. Findings highlight the importance of caregiver support services and programming for mental health.