Explaining the Gender Gap in the Caregiving Burden of Partner Caregivers

TitleExplaining the Gender Gap in the Caregiving Burden of Partner Caregivers
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2019
AuthorsSwinkels J., Tilburg T.V, Verbakel E., M. van Groenou B
JournalJ Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci
Volume74
Issue2
Pagination309-317
Date PublishedJan 10
ISBN Number1079-5014
Accession Number28379560
Abstract

Objectives: We examine gender differences in the experienced burden of partner caregivers using the stress-appraisal model. Gender differences can be explained by differences in conditions of burden (primary stressors, help from others, hours of caregiving, and secondary stressors) and how strong their effects are. Method: The data are from the Netherlands' Older Persons and Informal Caregivers Survey-Minimum Data Set (N = 1,611 caregivers). We examine mediation and moderation effects using structural equation modeling. Results: Women experience greater partner caregiver burden than men, which is related to women experiencing more secondary stressors (relational and financial problems, problems combining different tasks). For women and men alike, there is a positive association between burden and more primary stressors (partner's care need indicated by health impairment), help from other caregivers, and secondary stressors. For male caregivers, caregiving intensity also contributes to a greater burden. Discussion: This study corroborates the structural impact of gender on the conditions of as well as their effects on the partner caregiver burden. Reducing the hours of caregiving for male caregivers in severe care situations and helping female and male caregivers deal emotionally with the caregiving situation can reduce the partner caregiver burden.

DOI10.1093/geronb/gbx036
PMCID

PMC6327655

Link

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6327655/

Short TitleThe journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences
Alternate JournalThe journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences