Comparison of Time-Use Patterns and Self-Efficacy in Family Caregivers of Patients With Chronic Disease Publisher



Riyahi A^{1, 2} ; Abdolrazaghi H³ ; Sarlak N¹ ; Faraji S⁴ ; Nobakht Z⁵
Source: International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation Published:2020

Abstract

Background/Aims Caregivers perform an important role but caring affects other roles they perform, resulting in poor time management and reduced quality of life. This study aimed to compare the time-use patterns and self-efficacy of caregivers of two groups of patients with chronic disease: Those with a diagnosis of mental illness and those without a diagnosis of mental illness. Methods Family caregivers of patients with a chronic disease who were aged between 20-60 years, resident in Arak, not taking care of another patient and literate were eligible to participate. The presence of mental illness was based on a psychiatrist's diagnosis at least 6 months before the study. The Mothers' Time Use Questionnaire, Sherer Self-efficacy Scale and a demographic questionnaire were used to capture data relating to time-use, self-efficacy and participant characteristics. Data were analysed using independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test to identify and compare time-use patterns and self-efficacy. Results There were no significant between-group differences in demographics or mean time-use scores in six domains (rest/sleep, leisure, housework, work/occupation, social participation and satisfaction with time management). Self-care time-use scores (time, quality, importance and enjoyment) were significantly higher for caregivers of patients with chronic disease with a diagnosis of mental illness. Patient care time-use scores were significantly higher for caregivers of patients with chronic disease without a diagnosis of mental illness. Mean self-efficacy score was significantly higher in the group caring for patients with a diagnosis of psychiatric disease. Conclusions Chronic physical illnesses may result in greater dependence on caregivers than mental illness, increasing the amount of time spent on care and reducing caregiver self-efficacy. © 2020 MA Healthcare Ltd. All rights reserved.