Correlation of family functioning and depression in primary caregivers of community-dwelling stroke patients

Abstract

Objective To determine the correlation between family functioning and depression in primary care givers of community-dwelling stroke patients. Methods Totally 200 caregivers of stroke patients were investigated using Family Assessment Device (FAD) and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Results The mean score of family functioning of primary caregivers of stroke patients was 2.21±0.38. The mean score of depression was 10.19±3.17. Correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between family functioning and depression (r=-0.551, P < 0.01). Conclusions It is suggested to take actions to enhance the family functioning of primary care givers of stroke patients, especially their problem solving and affective response. Key words: Stroke; Family relations; Depression; Correlation analysis