The Association Between Caregiver Psychosocial Factors and Depressive Symptoms in People With Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aims: To identify and evaluate the magnitude of the association between caregiver psychosocial factors and depressive symptoms among people with dementia. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis used a random-effects model to estimate the effect size. Data Sources: Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus and Embase databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies from inception to 25 November 2023. Results: The review included 88 articles, with 61 selected for meta-analysis. Seven caregiver psychosocial factors were determined for the meta-analysis: caregiver quality of life, distress, positive aspects of caregiving, depression, burden, quality of the relationship and anxiety. Conclusion: This study suggested that depressive symptoms in people with dementia were associated with caregiver quality of life, distress, burden, depression and positive aspects of caregiving. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: Recognising the association between caregiver psychosocial factors and depressive symptoms in people with dementia has essential nursing implications. Adopting family-centred care models and integrating respite care and psychological support for caregivers can help improve patient outcomes and overall dementia care. Impact: This study highlights the association between caregiver psychosocial factors and depressive symptoms in people with dementia. Caregiver distress, burden and depression were linked to increased depressive symptoms in people with dementia, while caregiver quality of life and positive aspects of caregiving were associated with depressive symptoms in people with dementia. These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions to enhance dyadic health. Reporting Method: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Patient or Public Involvement: There was no patient or public contribution. Protocol Registration: This review was registered in PROSPERO (2024 CRD42024511383).