Informal caregivers’ personal needs – investigating the role of individual differences

Abstract Background: Although understanding informal caregivers’ personal needs is crucial for providing appropriate support, prior research shows shortcomings in this area. The aim of the current study is to investigate individual differences in informal caregivers' perceived personal needs depending on sociodemographic factors and home care situation. Methods: The study uses a cross-sectional sample of 1,429 informal caregivers in Germany. They were surveyed by a questionnaire. Multivariate analysis of variance and regression analysis was carried out to investigate determinants of caregivers’ perceived personal needs. Results: Significant differences in caregivers’ personal needs could be found. Women caregivers have a higher need for support in almost all domains than men do. Young caregivers have higher needs for financial and work-related support. Further, unemployed caregivers need more financial security and social contacts, while employed seek help with combining work and care. The informal caregivers' network and the care recipients' health status are other significant determinants of caregivers’ perceived personal needs. Conclusions: Informal caregivers need different information and support depending on their individual situation. Understanding their specific needs in different situations is of primary importance to provide optimal support and help caregivers to maintain their own health. Policymakers and service providers could consider the current findings to develop services oriented toward caregivers’ personal needs and communicate them to potential users.