The well-being of mothers caregiving for children with cerebral palsy: a Tunisian cross-sectional study
Abstract
Introduction cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in childhood. Caring for a child with functional limitations and long-term dependence poses significant challenges for many families. Despite this, the experiences and needs of mothers of children with CP remain understudied. This study aims to assess fatigue, caregiving burden, psychological distress, and sleep disorders (SDs) among a group of Tunisian mothers of children with CP. Methods this cross-sectional study explored the well-being of Tunisian mothers caring for children with CP. Participants were evaluated using the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS), Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Results a total of 71 participants were recruited. Of all participants, 39.4% reported moderate to severe burden, and 53.5% reported severe fatigue. The prevalence of clinically significant depressive or anxious symptoms was found to be 63.4% and 53.5%, respectively. The prevalence of SDs was 74.6%. The most affected components of the PSQI were sleep latency, sleep quality, and sleep dysfunction. Sleep quality was significantly related to epilepsy in children (p=0.012), mothers' age (p=0.027), mothers' depression (p=0.008), or anxiety (p=0.001). No significant association was found between mothers' burden or fatigue and low sleep quality. Conclusion our findings highlight the prevalence of fatigue, burden, serious…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 71 participants or records.
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