Anxiety and Depression Levels in Caregivers of Older Adults During Hospitalization

Abstract

Introduction: Anxiety and depression are common mental health problems worldwide and may substantially affect caregivers, particularly those providing care for older adults during hospitalization. Objective: To estimate the levels of anxiety and depression among caregivers of older adults in Orizaba, Veracruz. Materials and Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2025. A non-probability convenience sample included 80 primary caregivers of hospitalized older adults or older adults who had been recently discharged from the hospital. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS; α= 0.90). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics according to the nature of the variables and inferential analysis using Pearson’s chi-square test. Results: Clinical anxiety was identified in 38.7% of caregivers, 31.3% were classified as borderline cases, and 30.0% had normal anxiety levels. For depression, 66.3% had normal levels, 21.3% were classified as borderline cases, and 12.4% presented clinical depression. No statistically significant association was found between the length of hospital stay and anxiety (p= 0.376) or depression (p= 0.737), according to Pearson's chi-square test. Conclusions: A considerable proportion of primary caregivers of hospitalized older adults presented anxiety, whereas most exhibited normal levels of depression.

Recibido: 15/02/2026

Aprobado: 27/04/2026