This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with caregiver burden among caregivers of older persons with and without dementia in rural eastern Uganda.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in rural eastern Uganda (Busia and Namayingo districts) from December 2023 to September 2024. Cognitive impairment in older persons was assessed using the IDEA and Rowland University Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS). Caregiver burden was measured with the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview scale (score>=21 is greater than mild burden), and caregiver depression with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9, score>=10 is depression). Frequencies and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed.

The study included 612 dyads of older persons and their caregivers (mean age 38.1 years; 65% female; mean education level 1.2 years). Most caregivers were adult children (40.8%), spouses (25%), or adult grandchildren (17%). Caregiver burden was common in 62% of caregivers (44% moderate, 18% severe burden). The mean PHQ-9 score was 9.8. Multivariable regression showed that older caregiver age, being a son, less time knowing the older person, and higher PHQ-9 scores were associated with greater caregiver burden.

There is a high prevalence of caregiver burden in rural Uganda, with caregiver depression and older age being significant factors, while income and education were not risk factors. Caregiver education and targeted risk reduction could help alleviate caregiver burden and reduce dementia in rural SSA.