Social factors and depression in carers of people with dementia

Background Research has highlighted the influence of psychosocial factors on the wellbeing of carers of people with dementia. This study aimed to investigate the interrelationships between life events, depression and social support in carers of people with dementia. Method Participants were 72 caters of people with dementia. They were interviewed using the Bedford College Life Events and Difficulties Schedule and the Geriatric Depression Scale. Results The results showed that 31 (43%) of carets were depressed. Factors associated with depression in carers were a lack of confiding relationship, depression in the person with dementia, and living with the person with dementia. Conclusions Carers of people with dementia appear more vulnerable to depression in the context of the caring experience rather than threatening life events. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.