The gendered nature of caregiver perceptions of the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI) for those with dementia

The gendered nature of caregiving behaviours and stress outcomes is well known.  However, little research has been conducted concerning caregiver perceptions of ChEI effectiveness and none is available on gender differences of their perceptions.  For a study on caregiver perceptions in this area, including a comparison with clinical judgement, a screening interview to determine eligibility for the larger study obtained information on their perceptions after a family member had been taking the drug for 6 months (this is the time when clinicians determine whether to maintain the patient on the drug or terminate treatment).  Analyses of the triage data reveal differences in perceptions of effectiveness with males, especially husbands, more likely to give an ‘indeterminate’ assessment and females, especially wives, more likely to give a positive assessment.  There is no gender difference in providing an assessment that the drugs are having a negative effect.  The extent of assistance provided by the caregiver, the particular ChEI the family member is taking, and the nature of the perceived effect (whether it is on the memory, mood and/or physical functioning of the patient) are also taken into account.  The results are discussed terms of what we know about women’s place in caring for and about family.