Quality of life in Latin American immigrant caregivers in Spain

Abstract

Objective: To describe perceived quality of life in Latin American caregivers working in Spain and how it varies in relation to certain variables shared by this group. Methods: We used the SF-36 to measure perceived quality of life in 517 women residing in five Spanish regions: the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, the Basque Country, the Canary Islands, and Madrid. Several variables related to the socio-demographic profile and migration process were studied using Student's t test, ANOVA and linear regression models. Results: The participants scored very low on the dimensions of physical and emotional roles. The factors associated with lower quality of life scores within the group were working as a live-in caregiver, lack of contract, multitasking, irregular status, and younger age. Conclusions: The vulnerability of these women can be explained by poor working conditions and other factors related to the migratory process.