Introduction: Caring for a person with a disability can significantly impact a caregiver’s quality of life. Caregivers of children with disabilities experience varying levels of burden based on socioeconomic factors, employment status, and education level.
Objectives: This study will add to the existing body of research regarding the extent to which social support impacts caregiver burden for caregivers of children with disabilities.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative analysis was performed with a convenience sample of family caregivers (n = 26) of children with disabilities who receive services at an outpatient center in northern Ecuador. Data was collected using the Zarit Burden Interview, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and an open-ended question about coping strategies caregivers are currently using. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze questionnaire data and extrapolate themes related to coping strategies.
Results: Analysis of the interviews revealed that women caregivers with lower formal education, employment in non-professional roles, and primary caregiving responsibilities reported the highest burden scores. Caregivers with higher education and professional employment reported more structured coping strategies and reduced burden. Thematic analysis indicated that coping strategies for burnout include seeking social support, participating in self-care activities, relying on faith and prayer, taking breaks, and focusing on emotional and child-centered coping.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: This study identifies the demographic characteristics of caregivers reporting the highest perceived burden, providing insights into potential risk factors and intervention needs. Occupational therapists may use this information to offer holistic, client-centered interventions for caregivers addressing physical, emotional, and overall well being to enhance their quality of life and health.