2.3. Measures
The dependent measure considered in the present study was the burden experienced by the caregiver, as assessed by the Case Management Nurse from the corresponding health centre, during a home visit using the Caregiver Strain Index (CSI). This outcome was assessed by using a CSI questionnaire, which has proven to be reliable and is validated for use with a population of Spanish caregivers [In addition to this, the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were registered. Sociodemographic variables included age, sex, marital status, education, paid employment, relationship with the patient, duration of care, and receiving or not receiving assistance for caregiving. These variables were indicated by the caregiver in a personal interview with a nurse prior to the study.