Estimating the Economic Burden of Family Caregivers of COVID-19 Survivors in Punjab-Pakistan

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems and families worldwide, with family caregivers bearing a substantial burden. In Punjab, Pakistan, family caregivers of COVID-19 survivors face significant financial strain due to prolonged care requirements, medical expenses, and loss of income. This study aims to quantify the economic burden on these caregivers and identify socioeconomic factors contributing to financial strain for targeted support. Employing a cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 5,770 caregivers selected through convenience sampling using a self-constructed 27-item questionnaire with dichotomous responses. Data analysis included structural equation modeling, odds ratio calculations, and tree diagrams to evaluate the economic burden and identify contributing factors. The study found that 59.1% of the family caregivers were female, with a mean age of 45 years. A six-factor economic burden model was developed to quantify the financial strain on caregivers during the pandemic. Results indicated a higher burden on female caregivers over 45, married, unemployed, earning up to sixty thousand PKR, with a maximum secondary education, living in rural areas, in joint families, or away from families. Those performing household, medical, and personal tasks faced higher financial challenges, especially when caring for survivors hospitalized, in ICU, with long disease durations, permanent disabilities, or severe infections. The study highlights the substantial economic impact on family caregivers of COVID-19 survivors in Punjab, Pakistan, underscoring the urgency for governmental and community support to alleviate their financial strain.