Assessing Quality of Life in Informal Caregivers of Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Measurement Tools
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Issued Date
2026-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
18712584
eISSN
18712576
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105039992914
Journal Title
Applied Research in Quality of Life
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Applied Research in Quality of Life (2026)
Suggested Citation
Zhang Q., Xin G., Chaleewong N., Ho M.H. Assessing Quality of Life in Informal Caregivers of Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Measurement Tools. Applied Research in Quality of Life (2026). doi:10.1007/s11482-026-10607-5 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/117062
Title
Assessing Quality of Life in Informal Caregivers of Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Measurement Tools
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Corresponding Author(s)
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Abstract
Informal caregivers of older adults play a crucial role in providing care but face emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Measuring the quality of life (QoL) of these caregivers is essential for understanding their needs, improving support, and capturing the broader impact of caregiving on family well-being. However, the most appropriate QoL measurement tool remains unclear. This review summarizes reliable and valid tools designed or adapted for this population. A systematic search of six databases was conducted to identify studies evaluating QoL measurement tools for informal caregivers. Eligible studies reported tool development and psychometric properties. The COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist was used to assess the risk of bias, and a random-effects model was applied in the meta-analysis to estimate the pooled Cronbach’s alpha and evaluate heterogeneity. Twenty-one studies were included. Most QoL tools showed strong internal consistency reliability, with a pooled Cronbach’s alpha of 0.927 (95% CI: 0.908–0.946). Moderate to high heterogeneity was observed (I² = 69.41%), indicating variability across studies. Greater variability was found among younger caregivers, while higher consistency was observed in Asia compared to Europe and the Americas. QoL tools for informal caregivers of older adults demonstrate good reliability, as indicated by Cronbach’s alpha, reflecting strong internal consistency. They provide valuable evidence to assess family well-being, inform support strategies, and guide family-centered interventions and policies. Future research should enhance their applicability across diverse caregiving contexts and populations.