Comparisons of Occupational Balance Within Informal Caregivers of Individuals With Schizophrenia

Abstract

The caregiving burden experienced by informal caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia (ICIWS) can affect their perceived occupational balance (OB). This study examines the differences in OB among ICIWS with different caregiving burden levels. This cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 149 ICIWS. The Occupational Balance Questionnaire 11–Turkish Version (OBQ11-T) was used to assess the participants’ OB. The Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale was employed to evaluate caregiving burden levels. Statistically significant differences were found in the total score of OBQ11-T, Item 3 (time for doing things wanted), Item 5 (having sufficient time for doing obligatory occupations), and Item 9 (balance between obligatory/voluntary occupations) between the severe and little caregiving burden groups (p < .05). Caregiving for individuals with schizophrenia can lead to varying levels of caregiving burden, which negatively affects OB. Occupational therapists working with ICIWS should assess OB and address OB-related challenges to alleviate caregiver burden.

Plain Language Summary

Balancing Daily Activities for Schizophrenia Caregivers

Caring for people with schizophrenia can disrupt their daily routines of caregivers. We studied 149 caregivers to see how they manage their activities. Using surveys, we found that those facing more burden had trouble balancing activities like doing what they wanted and needed. This suggests that caregiving burden affects how caregivers handle their own tasks. Occupational therapists could help caregivers by understanding their challenges and finding ways to reduce burden.