Date of Award
Fall 12-2025
Document Type
Capstone
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
December 2025
College Granting Degree
Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Beth King
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) represented an escalating public health challenge, profoundly affecting individuals, families, and healthcare systems. As the number of individuals diagnosed with ADRD rises, the prevalence of caregiver burden and burnout among those providing care also increases. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the existing assessment processes for caregiver burnout and determine the effectiveness of the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), a measurement which identifies caregivers’ levels of stress, at a memory disorder center in south Florida. Sixteen caregivers reported overall mild-to-moderate caregiver burden, with a mean ZBI score of 22.19 (SD = 15.06). While most item-level means were below 1.5, indicating infrequent burden experiences, several items demonstrated higher scores suggestive of more consistent strain (behavior management and perceived loss of autonomy). The outcomes of this quality improvement project contributed to the improved identification of caregiver stress/burnout, connection of resources, and strengthened protocols for comprehensive dementia care.
Recommended Citation
Walke, Reede A., "PERSONS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND RELATED DEMENTIAS AND CAREGIVER BURNOUT: A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 168.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/168