The impact of perceived adequacy of social support on caregiving burden of family caregivers

Social support is important for family caregivers. This study examined the effect of family caregivers' perceived adequacy of social support on caregiver burden. Data were obtained from a random sample of 340 family caregivers of adults aged 65 and older in Calgary, Canada, through telephone interviews using a structured questionnaire. Three questions measured caregivers' perceived adequacy of social support in emotional, caregiving-related activities and in financial and material assistance domains. Caregiver burden was measured using the Zarit Burden Interview. Using hierarchical multiple regression, a higher level of perceived adequacy of social support was significantly related to a lower level of caregiving burden. The findings illustrate the importance of practitioners providing tangible and affordable services to family caregivers.