Predictors of caregiver burden among older parents caring for their child with an intellectual or developmental disability

This research investigated the relationship between perceived level of stress, perceived level of support and the experience of caregiver burden among caregivers of advanced age. Eligibility criteria including carers' being between the ages of 60-79 and being the full-time caregiver to their adult (age 18 or older) son or daughter with I/DD. A web based survey design was employed to answer the research question with cross-sectional data collection. The study included 106 eligible participants with an average caregiver age of 67 years. The Zarit Burden Interview, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used to measure participant's scores on the identified variables for this study. In order to determine whether a predictive relationship existed among the variables, an ordinal logistical regression was conducted to analyze the results. The results indicate that there is a statistically significant relationship among all three variables. A positive predictive relationship exists between caregiver burden and perceived stress. A negative predictive relationship exists between caregiver burden and perceived social support. And a mediating relationship was found between perceived social support and perceived stress. These findings are significant filling an important gap in the literature investigating correlations among this population of caregivers. The results can inform and shape current policy being discussed in legislation. In addition, the empirical evidence promotes professional advocacy for families to be supported and to take action to reduce stress and connect to natural and professional support networks.