Anxiety, Depression, and Spirituality Among Caregivers of Patients With Alzheimer Disease

The nature of the Alzheimer’s disease gradually makes patients dependent to persistent care. This may have a large negative effect on the caregivers’ quality of life and predisposes them to psychological distress. Spirituality, however, may act as a buffer and enhance their adaptability with stressful conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the association between spirituality and symptoms of anxiety and depression in a sample of caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. In this cross-sectional study, 209 outpatients with moderate Alzheimer’s disease (using DSM-IV criteria and MMSE test) and their caregivers were selected. Patients’ and caregivers’ demographic data were recorded. The Spiritual Intelligence Questionnaire and Hospital Anxiety-Depression Scale were completed by caregivers. Spirituality was negatively correlated with depressive symptoms. Spirituality, however, had a positive but non-significant correlation with anxiety symptoms. Although symptoms of anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in Alzheimer caregivers, only depressive symptoms are directly linked to spirituality. Spiritually-based approach may be a component of therapeutic interventions, in order to enhance caregivers’ adaptability.