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

Introduction: 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.methods: 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.results: spirituality was negatively correlated with depressive symptoms. spirituality, however, had a positive but non-significant correlation with anxiety symptoms.conclusion: 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.