Korean J Fam Pract.  2024 Mar;14(1):57-64. 10.21215/kjfp.2024.14.1.57.

Physical, Mental, and Social Difficulties of Young Adults under 30 Years Living with Dementia Patients: Community Health Survey, 2019

• Kim S
• Kim KH

• KMID: 2554233
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.21215/kjfp.2024.14.1.57

Abstract

Background
Concern regarding physical and mental burden of young carers is increasing. This study aimed to determine the physical, mental, and social difficulties of young adults living with dementia patients.
Methods
The analysis was based on the 2019 community health survey of Korea. Adults under 30 years living with dementia patients were compared with those having a dementia family member, but not living with them. Suspected difficulties were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.
Results
Objective short sleep duration (OSSD) was higher in those living with dementia patients (odds ratio [OR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–2.40). There was no significant difference in lack of physical activity between the two groups for men, however, for women, lack of physical activity was higher in those living with dementia patients (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.31–3.68). Social activity was slightly lower among those living with dementia patients compared to those not living with dementia patients, with borderline significance (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.55–1.02).
Conclusion
Results suggest that young carers may have certain difficulties such as OSSD, and lack of physical activity. Further studies are required to specify young carer’s physical, mental, and social profile to provide proper support for them.

Keyword

Young Carer; Dementia; Caregivers; Health Status; Mental Health; Social Network