Caregiver needs scale_neurodevelopmental disorders

Objectives: To explore the care-giving needs of parents of children suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders in an Indian setting

Methods: One-hundred and twelve parents (within the age group of 18-60 years) who are involved in care-giving of children (aged 3–12 years and diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder according to DSM 5) were assessed using a Hindi version of Caregiver Needs Scale.
Results: The mean score on CNS -Hindi version obtained was 80.39 (SD-14.36) indicating a high degree of caregiver needs amongst the parents. Around 65.7% of the respondents expressed a definite need for help in all the items of the scale. The total score on CNS showed a significant (p<0.05) negative correlation with the age of the child, suggesting that parents with children of a younger age demonstrated more care-giving needs. Age of parent showed a significant (p<0.05) negative correlation with scores for community and financial needs.

Conclusions: Parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders expressed a high degree of caregiver needs in multiple domains, e.g., information, community service, support, and financial needs. Understanding parents’ perspectives on important unmet needs are important to modify health services and improve family outcomes.