Life quality and depression in mothers of children with spina bifida: A cross-sectional study

Spina Bifida (SB) frequently manifests with neurological, orthopedic, and urological complications in children, which severely restrict the activities of daily living (ADL) for both the affected children and their families. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate how specific functional independence domains, multidimensional quality of life (QoL), and socioeconomic factors in children with Spina Bifida correlate with maternal depression and maternal QoL dimensions. The study sample consisted of 30 children with SB, aged between 2 and 18 years, and their mothers. Children’s functional independence and QoL were assessed using the Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM) and the Children’s Quality of Life Scale (CQLS), respectively. Maternal QoL was evaluated using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), and maternal depression levels were assessed via the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Children’s functional independence demonstrated a moderate and statistically significant negative correlation with maternal QoL ( r =-0.421, p = 0.023; indicating that higher child independence is associated with better maternal QoL) and maternal depression levels ( r =-0.412, p = 0.024). A high, statistically significant negative correlation was found between maternal NHP scores and pediatric QoL ( r =-0.561, p = 0.008; indicating that greater maternal health distress is associated with lower pediatric QoL). Furthermore, a moderate, statistically significant negative correlation was identified between family income level and maternal depression ( r =-0.380, p = 0.03). The study suggests that the compromised quality of life and limited functional independence of children with SB show significant correlations with maternal depression and mothers’ health-related quality of life. Particularly, children’s challenges in self-care, communication, and social interaction, alongside lower family income levels, are closely linked to maternal psychological well-being. These findings underscore the need for integrated, multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs that not only target the child’s functional status but also actively incorporate psychosocial support services to promote overall family health.