Quality of Life among Caregivers of Patients with Schizophrenia in Erbil, Iraq

Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate factors influencing the quality of life among caregivers of patients suffering from schizophrenia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed to assess patient and caregiver factors influencing the quality of life of 100 caregivers of patients with schizophrenia who attended the psychiatric outpatient clinic at Hawler teaching hospital during the period of 15th of July to 15th of October 2012. The study adopted the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire to assess caregivers quality of life domains (Physical, Psychological, Social and Environmental). Results: The mean scores of the WHOQOL-BREF in physical, psychological, social and environmental domains were 53.03, 52.91, 59.25, and 47.40 consecutively. Younger and employed caregivers had a better physical quality of life. Male and single status predicted better psychological quality of life. Second degree relatives in addition to shorter illness duration were associated with better social quality of life. Furthermore, better financial income predicts better quality of life across all domains. Conclusion: Several factors determine the quality of life among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia. Understanding quality of life of caregivers is crucial to improve the quality of care to patients with the condition.