Table 4.
Influencing factors on DOC: The DOC score (in hours per day) constituted the dependent variable and patient-related as well as caregiver-related parameters were analyzed as possibly influencing independent variables. This multiple linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant influence of wheelchair use, the necessity of permanent supervision, physical health impairment of the caregiver himself, and the use of ventilation support on the DOC. The model was adjusted for statistical outliers. The results are arranged by p-values. Abbreviations: DOC = duration of caregiving; CI = confidence interval.
| Variable | Change in DOC | 95% CI | p-Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of wheelchair | 2.29 | 1.22 | 3.36 | <0.001 |
| Permanent supervision necessary | 1.86 | 0.78 | 2.93 | 0.001 |
| Physical health impairment of the caregiver | 1.62 | 0.15 | 3.09 | 0.031 |
| Use of home ventilator support | 1.32 | 0.12 | 2.52 | 0.031 |
| Patient’s age | 0.03 | −0.02 | 0.07 | 0.214 |
| Mental health impairment of the caregiver | 0.85 | −0.59 | 2.30 | 0.246 |