Caring for the carer of someone who has had a stroke: findings from an innovative project

Abstract

Background/Aims Going into and coming out of hospital can be an uncertain and sometimes emotional experience for carers as well as patients. Many carers feel insufficiently involved and unsupported in the discharge process. However, we know that if hospital discharge is well-planned and the right services put in place then there is a much greater likelihood of the cared for person remaining at home with carer support and the carer feeling able to continue in their caring role. The aim of this article is to analyse an intervention that provided unpaid stroke carers with tailored support to meet their needs and prepare them for the discharge of their stroke survivor. Methods A carer support worker focused on the needs of carers of inpatients in an integrated stroke unit. The impact of the service was measured using the Caregiver Strain Index and the Preparedness for Caregiving Scale, together with carer self-ratings as to whether and/or how their needs were met. Results The most common outcomes, in order of reported importance were: confidence in accessing services, confidence in caring, requiring specific information, and the ability to improve or maintain their own wellbeing. Bed days saved and reductions in post-discharge packages of care were estimated. The median reduction in length of stay was 9 days, and potential savings were calculated at £35 367 during the 19-month study period. Conclusions A dedicated support service for unpaid stroke carers was effective in addressing carers' unmet needs and delivered health care cost savings.