Bienestar psicológico y sobrecarga en cuidadores informales de personas con discapacidad en el Instituto de parálisis cerebral del Azuay de la ciudad de Cuenca en el periodo 2025-2026

Abstract

The caregiver’s burden arises from the psychological, physical, and social consequences associated with the demands of their role, which often falls on family members providing care informally. These demands can significantly interfere with multiple dimensions of their psychological well-being. Therefore, this study aims to describe the psychological well-being and caregiver burden among informal caregivers of people with disabilities at the Instituto de Paralisis Cerebral del Azuay (IPCA) in Cuenca, Ecuador, considering relevant sociodemographic variables. The study employed a quantitative, non- experimental, cross- sectional, and descriptive design, working with a sample of 30 informal caregivers. The Zarit Burden Interview and the PERMA profile were administered, complemented by a sociodemographic questionnaire. The most relevant findings indicated a tendency toward high levels of well-being, with Purpose emerging as the predominant dimension (Mdn= 8.5; SD=2.0). Regarding burden, half of the participants experienced intense levels (46.7%). Furthermore, sociodemographic analyses revealed that elevated burden levels were most common among divorced caregivers, those with a high school education, and homemakers. Thus, it can be concluded that, despite showing high psychological well- being, certain groups of caregivers remain more vulnerable to the demands of the caregiving role, underscoring the need for targeted support to reduce burden and strengthen their overall well-being.