The Experiences of Mothers With Bedbound Children: Care Burden

Abstract

This study was carried out to evaluate the problems experienced by mothers with bedridden children and to determine the effects of care burdens on mothers. The study was carried out on mothers who had a bedridden child who was in the Neurology Service between November 2016 and May 2017. The data were collected through a 19-question introductory form and the caregiver burden scale developed by Zarit. The data were evaluated using a computer. In statistical analysis, t-test, analysis of variance and chi-square test were used in independent samples. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The moderate age of 200 mothers participating in the study was found to be 30.8 ± 7.0 years, and the moderate care burden score was found to be 35.1 ± 24.3, and it was evaluated as mild to moderate. It was found that the younger the mother's age and the age of the child cared for, the greater the burden of care, and the longer the duration of care, the higher the burden of care. Being widowed, having a job and not having social security are factors that increase the burden of care. The effect of all these variables on burden of care was not statistically significant. The main problems that mothers experience while providing care are psychological problems and musculoskeletal problems. In order to minimize the burden of care for mothers with bedridden children, other family members should be included in the care, and parents should be supported psychologically.