The Association Between Coping Strategies and Caregiver Burden and Depression Among Caregivers of Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment in China

Objectives: In China, the high prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults affects millions of family caregivers and raises concerns for caregiver burden, depression, and other mental health problems. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between coping strategies and caregiver burden and depression among Chinese caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment. Method: Data came from structured interviews with 300 primary family caregiver–care recipient dyads in Wuhan, China. Coping strategies were measured by the Brief COPE (Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced) survey, caregiver burden was measured by the Zarit Burden Interview, and depression was measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. We used ordinary least squares regression to examine the association between coping strategies and caregiver burden and depression. Results: More positive reframing and acceptance were associated with lower caregiver burden, whereas more self-distraction was associated with higher caregiver burden. More positive reframing was associated with lower caregiver depression, whereas higher self-distraction and religion were associated with higher caregiver depression. Conclusions: Findings are of particular importance in developing and refining mental health interventions to prevent and reduce caregiver burden and stress by advocating for resources and training to facilitate effective positive reframing.