The Health of Chronically Ill Children: Lessons Learned from Assessing Family Caregiver Quality of Life

This study aims to assess family caregiver quality of life (QOL) and its relationship to the health of chronically ill children. Family caregivers (n = 100) completed the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36, Beck Depression Inventory, and Caregiver Quality of Life for Cystic Fibrosis Scale. Disease severity data were collected for children with cystic fibrosis. Analysis revealed significant QOL issues; and as the child's disease severity increases, the QOL of the caregiver decreases. A relationship exists between the child's and caregiver's health. Program recommendations to benefit family caregiver health and in turn benefit health of chronically ill children are discussed.