Anxiety and Depression among Family Caregivers of Older Adults with Cancer

Abstract

Anxiety and depression are the most common problems experienced by family caregivers. Aim: to assess anxiety and depression among family caregivers of older adults with cancer. Method: descriptive research design was used in this study. The study carried out on 157 family caregivers of the older adults diagnosed with cancer attending Mansoura Oncology Center within a period of three months. Data was collected using four tools, Socio demographic and clinical data structured interview schedule, Barthel Index Scale, Lawton and Brody Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results: the mean scores of anxiety were 11.31±3.37 in which the prevalence of anxiety among caregivers was 85.3%. The mean scores of depression were 10.64±3.22 in which the prevalence of depression was 81.5%. Conclusion: Family caregivers of older adults with cancer experienced high levels of anxiety and depression.

Keywords: Older adults, Cancer, Anxiety, Depression, Family caregivers