Validity and reliability of the PDCB: A tool for the assessment of caregiver burden in Parkinson's disease

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Existing instruments for caregiver burden assessment are not specific or sensitive to various aspects of caring for patients with Parkinson's disease. A better understanding of burden may enhance patient care and improve health of both patient and caregiver. The goal of this study was to evaluate the validity of the Parkinson's Disease Caregiver Burden (PDCB) questionnaire, a novel instrument designed to appraise more accurately the burden experienced by caregivers in the setting of Parkinson's disease. Methods: Common sources of distress for caregivers were taken from discussions with Parkinson's disease patients, caregivers, and clinicians, and used as the foundation o..