Knowledge of Alzheimer's Disease Among Family Caregivers

Elaine Eshbaugh and Lauren Str

Abstract

Objective: Although the majority of care for those with Alzheimer’s is provided by informal rather than formal caregivers, family caregivers may lack knowledge about the disease. We sought to better understand the level and predictors of knowledge among family caregivers. Design: Several Alzheimer’s area support group facilitators were asked to forward a survey to their support groups via electronic mail. An email that accompanied the survey invited participants to forward the survey to others who had family members affected by Alzheimer’s disease. One-hundred forty-two total participants completed the survey. Measurements: This study examined the level of knowledge 142 family members had about the disease using the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS). Results: Scores on the ADKS were positively correlated with self-reported knowledge of Alzheimer’s, and family members with higher levels of education were more likely to be knowledgeable about the disease. Conclusion: Our research suggests that years of education is a predictor of Alzheimer’s knowledge among caregivers. It appears that family members, particularly those with lower levels of education, have a need for more knowledge about Alzheimer’s.