The Association of Sociodemographic Factors with Family Support and Caregiver Burden among Family Caregivers of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Malang City, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Family caregivers play a crucial role in supporting patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM); however, prolonged caregiving may increase caregiver burden. Family support may help mitigate this burden by enhancing caregivers' capacity to manage caregiving responsibilities. This study aims to investigate the association between family support and caregiver burden among T2DM family caregivers, while exploring the influence of sociodemographic factors on these variables. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between February and November 2023 in 16 primary health centers across five districts in Malang City, Indonesia. Cluster sampling was used to recruit 324 family caregivers of patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Family support and caregiver burden were measured using the Family Support Questionnaire (FSQ) and the Caregiver Burden Scale (CBS), respectively. Data were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation and multiple logistic regression. Results: Findings indicated that 63.6% of caregivers perceived good family support, while 78.1% experienced a moderate caregiver burden. Correlation analysis using the Spearman rank test yielded a result r = ?0.066, p = 0.235, indicating no significant relationship between family support and caregiver burden among T2DM caregivers. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that relationship with the patient was independently associated with caregiver burden (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.10–2.03, p = 0.011; reference: spouse), while income was also independently associated with caregiver burden (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.08–2.05, p = 0.015; reference: high income). Conclusion: Recommendations include encouraging primary healthcare nurses to implement family nursing care, conduct home visits, and establish support groups for T2DM family caregivers.