Author ORCID Identifier
Yujun Liu: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4115-9459
M. Courtney Hughes: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8699-5701
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
PEC Innovation
Abstract
Objectives
This study aims to examine the change in financial strain, health behaviors, and psychological well-being of family caregivers of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the differences in mental health outcomes by gender, race, and relationship status.Methods
Using the 2020 National Health and Aging Trends Study COVID-19 supplement, our sample included 2026 family caregivers of older adults. Structural equation modelingwas conducted.Results
Caregivers with financial strain showed worse mental health than those with no financial strain. Female or adult children caregivers reported significantly less time walking, more financial strain, and a higher level of negative mental health outcomes compared to male or spouse caregivers; non-White caregivers reported greater positive mental health outcomes compared to White caregivers during the pandemic.Discussion
Health professionals should consider the financial and mental health impact of COVID-19 among family caregivers when designing and delivering caregiver support programs.Innovation
This study provides nationally representative estimates of several important health behaviors and health outcomes for caregivers of older adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to fill the knowledge gap about the characteristics of caregivers whose health and well-being were most affected by the pandemic.DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100290
Publication Date
2024
Recommended Citation
Liu, Y., Hughes, M. C., & Wang, H. (2024). Financial strain, health behaviors, and psychological well-being of family caregivers of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. PEC innovation, 4, 100290
Original Citation
Liu, Y., Hughes, M. C., & Wang, H. (2024). Financial strain, health behaviors, and psychological well-being of family caregivers of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. PEC innovation, 4, 100290
Department
School of Family and Consumer Sciences| School of Health Studies
Included in
COVID-19 Commons, Geriatrics Commons, Other Public Health Commons