Keywords

Epilepsy; Caregivers; Children with Medical Complexities; Burden; Health-Related Quality of Life; Quality of Life

Abstract

Children with medical complexities (MC) often have epilepsy as a comorbidity. The demanding management of conditions in children with complex needs requires specialized medical care. This care usually prioritizes the child’s health but often disregards caregivers' physical and mental health. This study examined the relationship between epilepsy in children with medical complexities (MC) and their caregivers' quality of life (QoL), with a focus on mental health, physical well-being, and financial stability. A national survey was conducted to compare the experiences of two groups of caregivers: 1) those who have children with MC and epilepsy, and 2) those who have children with MC without epilepsy. The analysis used cross-sectional data (N = 21) to examine differences between the two groups. The results supported the initial hypothesis, with lower Parent HRQOL scores observed among caregivers in the epilepsy group (M = 50.74, SD = 4.91) compared to the non-epilepsy caregiver group (M = 57.72, SD = 6.18). A significant difference was observed in Parent HRQOL Summary scores between groups, t(17.31) = -2.80, p = 0.012. These findings highlighted the additional burdens associated with epilepsy and identified possible gaps in the medical and social support systems.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Feuerstein, Julie

College

College of Medicine

Department

Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences

Thesis Discipline

Biomedical Sciences

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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