International Institute for Population Sciences
Deemed to be University (An Autonomous Organization of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)

Background: With population ageing accelerating in India, older adults are increasingly engaged in caregiving roles. While caregiving provides social value, it may also impose psychological costs. This study examines the association between care responsibilities and mental health among older adults in India, with a focus on the mediating role of care burden. Methods: Using data from 6,700 respondents aged 60 years and above from Wave 1 of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), we assessed caregiving status, depressive symptoms (CES-D scale), and a standardized care burden index. Multivariate regression and mediation analysis were employed to test direct and indirect effects of caregiving on psychological well-being. Results: Approximately 21.4% of older adults reported providing care, with women comprising the majority of caregivers. Caregivers exhibited significantly higher depressive symptoms (mean CES-D = 15.1) compared to non-caregivers (13.8). Regression analysis confirmed that caregiving was associated with elevated depressive symptoms (β = 0.90, p < 0.01). Caregiving also predicted higher care burden (β = 0.48, p < 0.001), which in turn was positively associated with depressive symptoms. Mediation analysis revealed that care burden accounted for 18% of the total caregiving effect on mental health, indicating partial mediation. Education exerted a modest protective effect, while chronic morbidity and functional limitations amplified psychological distress. Women and rural residents reported disproportionately higher burden levels.