Vulnerability and physical well-being of caregivers: what relationship?

Objectives. To assess relationships among burden, compassion, and well-being and health
among an active group of caregivers.
Methods. 301 caregivers with female prevalence (F = 61.1%, M = 38.9%) and ages between
18 and 84 years old (average = 38.72; SD 13.36) participated. Evaluation was carried using
standardized instruments to assess: Burdens (CBI), dimensions related to Compassion and
Burnout (ProQOL-5), State of Well-being (Who-5) and particular health-related domains
(Emotional state, Physical health, Depressive Polarity, Dysphoric Polarity-SF-36). Correlational
analyses and multivariate linear regressions were performed.
Results. Positive correlations emerged between Burdens and Compassion Fatigue, Well-being
and Satisfaction; inverse correlations emerged among Well-being and Burnout, Compassion
Satisfaction and Emotional State, with the exception of Time Dependence. Multivariate linear
regression indicated relations among Compassion Fatigue with Depression and Social Burden,
Compassion Satisfaction with Depressive Polarity and Dysphoria and Burnout with Social
Burden.
Conclusions. Caregivers’ work presents various risks, with negative outcomes that need to be
addressed for this group of professionals. These risks present a professional and human
development opportunity.