Role of Social Support in Predicting Caregiver Burden

Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2012 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2012.07.004 · Published: December 1, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Social Support

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how social support affects the burden experienced by caregivers of adults aging with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It looks at different types of social support: social integration, received support, and negative social interactions. The study found that having more social connections and receiving support were linked to lower caregiver burden. However, negative interactions with others were associated with higher burden. The results suggest that social support is a crucial factor in managing caregiver burden for those caring for adults aging with SCI. Interventions should focus on enhancing positive social interactions and reducing negative ones.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

173 caregivers of community-dwelling adults aging with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Social integration is a significant independent predictor of caregiver burden.
2
Received social support is a significant independent predictor of caregiver burden.
3
Negative social interactions is a significant independent predictor of caregiver burden.

Research Summary

The study examined the role of social support in predicting burden among caregivers of adults aging with SCI, using cross-sectional data from a multisite randomized clinical trial. Results indicated that social integration and received social support were associated with lower caregiver burden, while negative social interactions were associated with higher burden. The findings suggest that social support is an important factor in managing caregiver burden and should be considered in assessments and interventions.

Practical Implications

Assessment of Social Support

Healthcare professionals should assess the social support networks of caregivers of adults aging with SCI to identify those at risk of higher burden.

Intervention Development

Interventions should be designed to enhance social integration and received social support while mitigating negative social interactions to reduce caregiver burden.

Targeted Support Services

Support services should be tailored to address the specific social support needs of caregivers, such as providing emotional support and strategies for managing negative interactions.

Study Limitations

1
The dyads’ education level is fairly high, and therefore the sample may not be representative of the population of caregivers of adults aging with SCI.
2
The study uses a cross-sectional analysis, limiting causal interpretations of findings.
3
Caregivers with high levels of burden are more likely to perceive negative social interactions, or alternatively, are more likely to generate negative social interactions due to their burden.

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