Assessment of the impact of MoCA-Ina (Montreal Cognitive Assessment Indonesia version) scores on depression, burden, and knowledge in dementia caregivers

Background: Dementia patients necessitate intensive care, often imposing a substantial burden on caregivers. With the rising global prevalence of dementia, it becomes crucial to elucidate the determinants that influence caregiver stress and overall well-being. Objective: This research mainly aimed to examine the impact of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Ver. Indonesia (MoCA-Ina) score on the stress scale, life burden, and knowledge level among caregivers of dementia patients. Method: Observational research was conducted at Dr Sardjito Hospital Yogyakarta's Memory Clinic between March and May 2023. The study involved dementia patients who met specific criteria. Caregivers completed questionnaires, including the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), and Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale (DKAS). The data was analysed using the Spearman correlation test. Result: The research findings from 47 participants showed that the majority of caregivers were male (55.3%), university-educated (38.3%), family members (42.5%), spent over six hours per day with the patient (63.8%), and cared for the patient for varying durations. Caregiver stress scale scores indicated mild depression, mild-moderate burden, good knowledge level, and severe cognitive impairment. The Spearman test found no significant correlation between the cognitive impairment score and caregiver stress, burden, or knowledge level. Conclusion: MoCA-INA score in patients with dementia did not affect the caregiver's stress scale, caregiver burden, or knowledge levels.