Caregiving Demands and Depression Symptoms among Caregivers of Individuals with Down Syndrome during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Background
This study examined the association between caregiving demands and depression symptoms among caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Method
We conducted an online survey of 200 caregivers of children and adults with Down syndrome, including demographic data, the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8), and questions about lack of childcare and taking over instruction during the pandemic. A multiple linear regression analysis identified predictors of caregiver depression symptoms.
Results
Household income (B = −3.45, p < .001) and having to take over instruction (B = 2.24, p < .001) were significant predictors of PHQ-8 scores. Child age, caregiver gender, difficulty paying for health insurance, and lack of childcare were not significant predictors.
Conclusions
Lower income and instructional caregiving demands were associated with higher depression symptoms among caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome, suggesting potential targets for policy and intervention during future public health emergencies.
