Review and analysis of caregiver burden and nursing home placement

Research studies published between 1989 and 1995 were analyzed to identify variables that led to caregiver burden and nursing home placement of nondemented elders. Although the variables impact each caregiving situation differently, decreased functional abilities of the care receiver; interrupted sleep of the caregiver, or the presence of multiple factors within the caregiving situation were positively correlated with caregiver burden and increased risk of nursing home placement. Increased awareness of these issues is essential to provide successfully for the aging population. Health care professionals should assess for these factors and plan interventions. Further research is needed to better meet the needs of the elderly caregiver and care receiver.