Burden and Quality of Life Among Family Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Illness in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background: Chronic illnesses impose sustained emotional, physical, social, and financial demands not only on affected individuals but also on their family members, particularly in settings where family-based caregiving is predominant. Understanding the multidimensional burden experienced by caregivers is essential for developing effective support strategies. Objective: To assess the quality of life and the emotional, physical, social, and financial challenges experienced by family members of individuals with chronic illnesses in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 565 adult residents of Riyadh recruited from major shopping malls across different regions of the city. Data were collected using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, caregiving roles, knowledge of chronic illness, and quality-of-life domains. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. Results: Of the participants, 70.9% reported having at least one family member with a chronic illness, most commonly diabetes and asthma, and 37.3% identified themselves as caregivers. Caregivers reported high levels of anxiety (82.2%), sleep disturbances (57.1%), fatigue (35.4%), and neglect of personal health (33.1%). Financial burden was substantial, with 40.5% reporting treatment costs as burdensome and 59.1% indicating direct financial impact. Social consequences included lifestyle changes and altered family roles. Conclusion: Family members caring for individuals with chronic illnesses in Riyadh experience considerable emotional, physical, and financial strain. These findings highlight the urgent need for structured caregiver support programs, accessible mental health services, and financial assistance to improve caregiver well-being and support sustainable chronic disease management.