Burden and Predictors of Caregiver Burnout Among Informal Caregivers of Dementia Patients in Lagos State

Background: Dementia caregiving imposes significant psychological, physical, and economic burdens on informal caregivers, and understanding the predictors of caregiver burnout in the Nigerian context is critical for developing support interventions. This study determines the burden and predictors of burnout among informal caregivers of dementia patients in Lagos State, South West geopolitical zone. Methods: A cross-sectional study enrolled 150 primary caregivers of diagnosed dementia patients through neurology and geriatric clinic registers at tertiary facilities. The Zarit Burden Interview and Maslach Burnout Inventory were administered. Multiple regression identified predictors of caregiver burden. Results: Moderate to severe caregiver burden was prevalent. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation were the most prominent burnout dimensions. Female caregivers, those with full-time caregiving roles, and those managing patients with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia reported higher burden scores. Lack of formal caregiver training and limited social support were independent predictors. Conclusion: Caregiver burnout among dementia caregivers in Lagos is a significant public health concern that family medicine practitioners must proactively address. Caregiver assessment and support should be embedded into dementia care pathways, including access to structured carer education and respite care services. Keywords: caregiver burnout, dementia, informal caregivers, Lagos State, Zarit Burden Interview