Social factors and depression in carers of people with dementia.
BACKGROUND
Research has highlighted the influence of psychosocial factors on the wellbeing of carers of people with dementia. This study aimed to investigate the interrelationships between life events, depression and social support in carers of people with dementia.


METHODS
Participants were 72 carers of people with dementia. They were interviewed using the Bedford College Life Events and Difficulties Schedule and the Geriatric Depression Scale.


RESULTS
The results showed that 31 (43%) of carers were depressed. Factors associated with depression in carers were a lack of confiding relationship, depression in the person with dementia, and living with the person with dementia.


CONCLUSIONS
Carers of people with dementia appear more vulnerable to depression in the context of the caring experience rather than threatening life events.
Waite
Allyson
A
Epping Forest Day Unit, Rectory Lane Health Centre, Loughton, Essex, UK.
Bebbington
Paul
P
Skelton-Robinson
Martin
M
Orrell
Martin
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003704:Dementia / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006701:Home Nursing / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008016:Life Change Events; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012307:Risk Factors; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support