Socio-demographic characteristics of caregivers of home health care patients

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, it is aimed to determine the socio-demographic characteristics of caregivers of the patients receiving Home Health Service (HHS). Materials and Methods: The caregivers of the patients receiving care from HHS have been included in this cross-sectional study. A data collecting form has been used to evaluate the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the caregivers. Results: Primary caregivers of the 80 patients who benefits from HHS have been included in the study. Of the 80 caregivers, 85.00% (n: 68) are female and 15.00% (n: 12) are male. 63.75% of the patients are between 35-64 years of age. 86.25% are satisfied with the care, 70.00% feels self-sufficient with their care, 56.25% needs care-related training-consulting. It is stated that 41.25% of caregivers feel exhausted, 43.75% feels weakness-helplessness, 42.50% experience communication problems with the patient, 78.75% needs help. The percentage of pre-maintenance health status very good-good is 90.00%, while the percentage of those who are in good health after the maintenance is 20.00%. The most challenging conditions are determined as bathing with 46.25% and diapering with 41.25%. Of the caregivers, 27.50% use antidepressants, 15.00% use sleeping pill, and only 21.25% have good sleep quality. When caregivers are asked to give Home Health Services a score out of 10, their score is 9.0±1.0. Conclusion: The scope and function of home health services is important for caregivers as well as for patients. Determining the care needs of caregivers and supporting them in this direction is important for the quality and integrity of the service provided.