Social determinants of health and their impact on depression in family caregivers of those with dementia: The importance of intermediary determinants.

INTRODUCTION

Dementia family caregivers face a significant burden due to the progressive nature of the disease, which places them at high risk for depression. Because a lack of information is available on the social determinants of health that impact depression, this study investigated this relationship.

METHODS

This study was a secondary data analysis using the 2017 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) Round 11 and the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) Round 4, which included a nationally representative sample of American older adults and their family caregivers. Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Among 528 family caregivers of persons living with dementia, ≈15.9% had depression. The final logistic regression model showed that intermediary determinants, such as living with a spouse/partner or utilizing a caregiver training program, lowered the likelihood of depression.

DISCUSSION

Health care professionals should pay greater attention to these individuals, and caregiver training programs should be made widely accessible and available.

HIGHLIGHTS

Approximately 15.9% of dementia family caregivers had depression. Family caregivers who were married or living with a partner were less likely to have depression. Family caregivers involved in caregiving training programs were less likely to have depression.