Effect of Variables on Quality of Life among Caregivers of Patients Undergoing Peritoneal Dialysis

BACKGROUND: Most of the studies carried out abroad showed the effect of one or two variables on the constructs of burden, coping strategies, and quality of life (QOL) but nil in India context. These constructs change by cultural factors. The evaluation of variables influencing these constructs may be helpful in fine tuning the interventions to reduce the burden and to improve the QOL of caregivers of patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of demographic, social and clinical variables on burden, coping strategies, and QOL in caregivers of patients undergoing PD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, we recruited 100 caregivers of patients undergoing PD and made assessment on burden, coping strategies, and QOL and evaluated the effect of demographic, social, and clinical variables on these constructs. RESULTS: None of the studied variables showed effect on burden and coping strategies. Age, gender, duration of caregiving, presence of chronic disease, and duration of the presence of chronic disease showed a significant effect on QOL. CONCLUSION: The impact of demographic and clinical variables on QOL suggests these variables should be given adequate attention while developing interventions for alleviating the burden and improving the QOL of caregivers of patients undergoing PD.