The preparedness assessment for the transition home after stroke predicts key domains of caregiver health

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Caregivers of stroke survivors often experience adverse health effects due to poor preparation. Objectives We evaluate the concurrent and predictive validity of the Preparedness Assessment for the Transition Home after Stroke (PATH-s) family caregiver assessment tool relative to important domains of caregiver health and stroke survivor outcomes. Methods A convenience sample of caregivers (N = 183) was assessed on several health-related quality of life instruments prior to stroke survivor discharge (T1), and at 30-days (T2) and 90-days (T3) post-discharge. Results Caregivers completed assessments at T1 (N = 183), T2 (N = 116, 63%), and T3 (N = 97, 53%). At T1, the PATH-s demonstrated concurrent validity with depressive symptoms (r = −0.26, p < .001), global health (r = 0.45 p < .001) and activation (r = 0.34, p < .001). The PATH-s also has predicted improvements in T2 outcomes including depressive symptoms (radj = −0.21, p < .05), global health (radj = 0.30, p < .01), perceived stress (radj = −0.30, p < .01), activation (radj = 0.21, p < .05), caregiving-specific health-related quality of life (r = 0.23, p < .05), and caregiver strain (r = −0.36, p < .001). At T3, higher scores on the PATH-s were a significant predictor for improvements in activation (radj = 0.24, p < .05). Conclusion The PATH-s demonstrates good concurrent and predictive validity and predicts important domains relevant to caregiver well-being. This can be used to identify gaps in caregiver preparedness so interventions can be tailored to optimize the transition home and mitigate adverse effects of caregiving.