The Hidden Impact of Vision Loss: A Cross-sectional Study Assessing Caregiver Burden and Depression at a Tertiary Ophthalmology Center in India.

Background: Caregivers of visually impaired individuals often endure significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges, yet their burden and depression remain understudied, particularly in resource-limited settings like India. This study examines the prevalence and associated factors of caregiver burden and depression.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care institution in India from July 2022 to December 2023, involving 270 caregivers of 109 patients with permanent visual impairment (Category III or higher). Caregivers were assessed using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS) and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Statistical analyses included Chi-Square tests and Pearson's correlation, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Caregiver burden was prevalent, with 54.07% experiencing mild-to-moderate burden, 42.60% moderate to severe, and 3.33% severe burden. Depression affected 30% of caregivers (18.15% mild to moderate and 11.85% at risk of major depression). Burden was significantly associated with care duration (P < 0.001), female caregivers (P = 0.016), illiteracy (P = 0.002), patient relationship (P < 0.001), and patient employment status (P = 0.016). Depression was significantly linked to care duration (P < 0.001), female caregivers (P = 0.012), female patients (P = 0.009), married caregivers (P = 0.021), and nuclear families (P = 0.006). A moderate positive correlation between burden and depression was observed (R = 0.648, P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Caregivers of visually impaired individuals experience a substantial burden and depression, influenced by demographic and socioeconomic factors. Targeted interventions, including financial support, coping skills training, and psychiatric referrals, are essential to alleviate caregiver distress and enhance well-being.