Frequency of Depression among Caregivers of Patients with Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of depression in caregivers of Parkinson’s disease patients.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Neurology, Services Hospital, and Lahore from 1^st May 2017 to 31^st October 2017.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty cases fulfilling the inclusion/exclusion criteria were enrolled from Neurology Department, Services Hospital Lahore. Detailed history was taken from the caregivers by the researcher herself. The caregivers were evaluated for depression according to DSM-IV criteria. The presence/absence of depression was recorded.

Results: Caregiver’s common age was calculated as 49.64±5.30 years, 48.67% (n=73) were male and 51.33% (n=77) were females. Frequency of depression in caregivers of Parkinson’s disease patients was recorded in 44.67% (n=67) whereas 55.33% (n=83) did not have depression.

Conclusion: The frequency of depression is higher in caregivers of Parkinson’s disease patients, however, the results of our study generated the baseline data and it will be helpful for the caregivers and psychiatrists as well while managing the Parkinson’s disease.