The effect of mindfulness‐based interventions on caregiver burden, quality of life and psychological distress in caregivers of adults with chronic diseases: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

• Published in: Worldviews on evidence-based nursing Vol. 21; no. 5; pp. 528 - 541
• Main Authors: Erdoğan Yüce, Gülyeter, Döner, Ayser, Bilgin, Aylin, Muz, Gamze
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01-10-2024
• Subjects: caregiver burden; Caregivers; chronic disease; Chronic illnesses; meta‐analysis; Mindfulness; mindfulness‐based interventions; psychological distress; Quality of life; Systematic review; caregivers; mindfulness‐based interventions; chronic disease; meta‐analysis; quality of life; psychological distress; caregiver burden
• ISSN: 1545-102X; 1741-6787; 1741-6787
• DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12736

Background
Chronic diseases requiring long‐term treatment, care, and follow‐up can negatively affect the health and well‐being of caregivers. Mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) are increasingly used as a mental health intervention to control the psychological problems experienced by caregivers and improve their quality of life.
Aims
This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to provide evidence for a holistic evaluation and synthesis of the effects of MBIs applied to caregivers of adults with chronic disease on the burden, quality of life, and psychological distress.
Methods
Studies evaluating the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on caregivers of adults with chronic diseases and published through September 2023 were searched using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO. Methodological quality was assessed with the modified JADAD scale, and bias was assessed with the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomized trials. Randomized controlled studies were included. The standardized mean difference with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. Heterogeneity was analyzed using the I2 test and Q statistic. Publication bias was assessed with the Egger regression test.
Results
This meta‐analysis included 12 studies. Pooled evidence found that MBIs resulted in significant improvements in stress, anxiety, depression, and caregiver burden in caregivers of adults with chronic illness but had no significant effects on quality of life, resilience, and mindfulness. The Egger's test showed no evidence of publication bias.
Linking Evidence to Action
MBIs can be considered as a helpful method to increase psychological well‐being and reduce caregiver burden in caregivers of adults with chronic diseases. These findings may direct clinicians to conduct mindfulness‐based interventions for caregivers of adults with chronic diseases.