• 한국노년학
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• v.29 no.2
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• pp.407-424
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• 2009

This study aims to evaluate psychometric properties of the korean version of the caregiver reaction assessment. A total of 253 family caregivers for older adults with physical or mental impairments are recruited using the purposive sampling method. The psychometric properties of the instrument are tested by item-analysis, exploratory factor analysis(EFA), and convergent and criterion-related validity. The results show that the internal consistency values for the five dimensions of the K-CRA are good. The convergent and criterion-related validity is empirically confirmed. The EFA with the principal component method reveals the factor structure in the observed variables. The findings of the study confirmed that the K-CRA was both reliable and valid. In conclusion, the K-CRA would be useful in clinical and research settings in South Korea.

• Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care
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• v.19 no.1
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• pp.61-69
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• 2016

Purpose: It is important to alleviate care burden for terminal cancer patients and their families. This study investigated the factors associated with care burden among family caregivers (FCs) of terminally ill cancer patients. Methods: We analyzed data from 289 FCs of terminal cancer patients who were admitted to palliative care units of seven medical centers in Korea. Care burden was assessed using the Korean version of Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA) scale which comprises five domains. A multivariate logistic regression model with stepwise variable selection was used to identify factors associated with care burden. Results: Diverse associating factors were identified in each CRA domain. Emotional factors had broad influence on care burden. FCs with emotional distress were more likely to experience changes to their daily routine (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.54; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29~5.02), lack of family support (aOR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.04~4.97) and health issues (aOR, 5.44; 2.50~11.88). Family functionality clearly reflected a lack of support, and severe family dysfunction was linked to financial issues as well. FCs without religion or comorbid conditions felt more burdened. The caregiving duration and daily caregiving hours significantly predicted FCs' lifestyle changes and physical burden. FCs who were employed, had weak social support or could not visit frequently, had a low self-esteem. Conclusion: This study indicates that it is helpful to understand FCs' emotional status and family functions to assess their care burden. Thus, efforts are needed to lessen their financial burden through social support systems.