Caregivers Of Stroke Survivors Research Articles

The relationship between family resilience, post-traumatic growth, and caregiver burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT The study aimed to explore the relationship between family resilience, post-traumatic growth(PTG), and caregiver burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors. Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study to recruit 253 family caregivers of stroke survivors from a public hospital in Shandong Province, China. Caregivers completed sociodemographic information, the Shortened Chinese Version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale, the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory, and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview. We used Amos 24.0 to construct structural equation models and examine the mediating effects of stroke survivors’ post-traumatic growth. Family resilience was positively associated with post-traumatic growth, and both family resilience and post-traumatic growth were negatively associated with caregiver burden. Post-traumatic growth partially mediated the relationship between family resilience and caregiver burden, and the mediating effect accounted for 21.27% of the total effect. Targeted interventions should address family resilience and post-traumatic growth as protective factors of caregiver burden.

Predictors of Burden for First-Ever Stroke Survivor's Long-Term Caregivers: A Study of KOSCO.

Long-term changes in caregiver burden should be clarified considering that extended post-stroke disability can increase caregiver stress. We assessed long-term changes in caregiver burden severity and its predictors. This study was a retrospective analysis of the Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation. Patients with an acute first-ever stroke were enrolled from August 2012 to May 2015. Data were collected at 6 months and 6 years after stroke onset. The caregiver burden was measured with a subjective caregiver burden questionnaire based on the Korean version of the Caregiver Burden Inventory. The caregivers' characteristics and patients' clinical and functional status were also examined at each follow-up. A high caregiver burden, which suggests a risk of burnout, was reported by 37.9% and 51.7% of caregivers at 6 months and 6 years post-stroke, respectively. Both the caregiver burden total score and proportion of caregivers at risk of burnout did not decrease between 6 months and 6 years. The patients' disability (OR = 11.60; 95% CI 1.58-85.08; p = 0.016), caregivers' self-rated stress (OR = 0.03; 95% CI 0.00-0.47; p = 0.013), and caregivers' quality of life (OR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.59-0.99; p = 0.042) were burden predictors at 6 months. At 6 years, only the patients' disability (OR = 5.88; 95% CI 2.19-15.82; p < 0.001) and caregivers' psychosocial stress (OR = 1.26; 95% CI 1.10-1.44; p = 0.001) showed significance. Nearly half of the caregivers were at risk of burnout, which lasted for 6 years after stroke onset. The patients' disability and caregivers' stress were burden predictors in both subacute and chronic phases of stroke. The findings suggest that consistent interventions, such as emotional support or counseling on stress relief strategies for caregivers of stroke survivors, may reduce caregiver burden. Further research is needed to establish specific strategies appropriate for Korean caregivers to alleviate their burden in caring for stroke patients.

Telehealth in Informal Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review.

Background: There has been an increase in people with disabilities who require continuous care, which often falls to informal carers (ICs). Stroke is one of the conditions where ICs are most needed. Therefore, it is necessary for ICs to improve their caregiving skills and self-care capacity. Telehealth (TH) can facilitate them. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the evidence of the effects of interventions on ICs of stroke patients. Methods: The search was conducted in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINALH, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and APA PsycInfo. Key search terms included "stroke", "informal caregiver" and "telemedicine". Only randomised clinical trials were included. Results: A total of 2031 articles were found in the databases, 476 were screened and 19 clinical trials met the eligibility criteria. Different TH programmes have evaluated many outcomes related to physical and emotional health. The TH tools included phone, videophone, web-based interventions, and social media. The most investigated outcome was depression; although contradictory results were found, the TH may have helped to prevent an increase in depressive symptoms. There were inconsistent results on the caregiving burden and the preparedness of the IC. However, TH has positive effects on the health of the ICs, reducing the number of unhealthy days, anxiety, task difficulty perception, and improving psychological health. Conclusions: TH may be a useful tool to improve the abilities and health of ICs of SS. No adverse effects have been reported. More quality studies evaluating the effects of telemedicine on the ICs of stroke survivors, as well as the most appropriate doses, are needed.

A Holistic Approach to Expressing the Burden of Caregivers for Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review.

This systematic review explores the multifaceted challenges faced by caregivers of stroke survivors, addressing the global impact of strokes and the anticipated rise in survivors over the coming decades. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a thorough literature search identified 34 relevant studies published between 2018 and 2023. The review categorizes caregiver burden into four domains: physical health, social functioning, financial issues, and psychological health. Caregivers often experience a decline in physical health, marked by chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, and pain. Emotional distress is prevalent, leading to anxiety and depression, especially in cases of high burden. Financial strains arise from medical expenses and employment changes, exacerbating the overall burden. Contextual factors, such as cultural norms and resource availability, influence the caregiver experience. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale assessed the methodological quality of studies. The conclusion emphasizes tailored interventions and support systems for caregivers, with practical recommendations for healthcare professionals, therapists, mental health professionals, financial counselors, and policymakers. This comprehensive review enhances the understanding of caregiver experiences and provides actionable insights to improve stroke care and rehabilitation The study's novelty lies in its holistic examination of caregiver burden in stroke care, its focus on the recent literature, and its emphasis on forecasting caregiver outcomes, contributing valuable insights for proactive intervention strategies.

Working-Age Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Needs, Concerns, and Quality of Life.

The purpose of this study was to characterize the unmet needs and concerns of working-age caregivers of stroke survivors and to explore the relationships between these unmet needs and concerns and factors such as stroke survivor functional independence, caregiver strain, caregiver self-efficacy, caregiver perceived social support, and caregiver quality of life (QoL). Cross-sectional descriptive design was used in this study. Participants ( N = 103) completed an online survey. Descriptive statistics, bivariate Pearson correlation, and linear regression analysis was performed. Negative correlations were found between caregiver needs and concerns and both stroke survivor functional independence and caregiver self-efficacy. Positive correlations were identified between caregiver needs and concerns and caregiver strain. In multiple regression models, stroke survivor functional independence, caregiver self-efficacy, race, and gender were statistically significantly associated with caregiver QoL. Results of this study can inform nurses as they collaborate with informal caregivers and researchers in optimizing the rehabilitation and discharge process and aiding in the support of caregiver QoL. Working-age caregivers of stroke survivors expressed many needs and concerns. These needs, along with other factors, can affect outcomes including QoL in caregivers and stroke survivors.

Working-Age Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Needs, Concerns, and Quality of Life.

Working-Age Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Needs, Concerns, and Quality of Life.

Efficacy of Stroke Empowerment Program on Stroke Knowledge among Caregivers with Stroke Survivors

Background: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, are the leading cause of mortality in the world. This invisible epidemic is an under-appreciated cause of poverty and hinders the economic development of many countries. The burden is growing − the number of people, families, and communities afflicted is increasing. Aim: To determine the efficacy of the stroke empowerment program (SEP) on knowledge among caregivers of patients with stroke. To associate the knowledge of stroke with the demographic variables of caregivers. Methods: A quantitative research method was adopted. Caregivers of patients with stroke who fulfill eligibility criteria were chosen. The sample size was 85 caregivers in the study, and 85 caregivers in the control groups were recruited by the lottery method. SEP was implemented for the study group caregivers. The posttest assessments were taken on the 30th, 90th, and 180th days for both groups. Results: The comparison of knowledge on stroke between the study and control group caregivers during the pretest, the mean scores were 6.35 in the study group and 6.89 in the control group, and statistically, there was no significant difference in the pretest. The posttest knowledge mean score was 11.46, 11.68, and 11.52 in the study group and 7.42, 7.58, and 7.48 in the control group during posttests I, II, and III, respectively. The mean score was higher in the study group than the control group caregivers during posttests and was statistically significant at the P &lt; 0.01 level. Conclusion: Findings concluded that the combination of interventions like structured teaching, an information booklet on “Life after stroke,” telephonic reminders, and reinforcement has a positive impact on stroke knowledge among caregivers of stroke survivors.

Repercussions of Caregiving on Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Stroke is one of the most common causes of disability. Stroke survivors may have a wide variety of sensorimotor, cognitive, perceptual, and behavioral dysfunctions. The majority of long-term care for stroke survivors in residential settings is provided by informal caregivers, such as family members. This study was conducted to assess the burden of caregiving on caregivers of stroke survivors. This cross-sectional study was conducted by the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in a tertiary care institute in Western India. Patients were evaluated for inclusion and exclusion criteria. Caregiver strain among caregivers was assessed using the Modified Caregiver Strain Index Questionnaire (MCSI). The Katz index was used to assess activities of daily living. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were fulfilled by125 primary caregivers of stroke patients.Among stroke survivors, the majority were male (57.6%), and caregivers were wives of stroke survivors (28.8%). There was a significant statistical difference in the median of the modified caregiver strain index when the stroke survivor was male (p=0.034), fully dependent (p<0.001), and had a hemorrhagic stroke (p<0.001). There was no significant statistical difference in the median of the MCSI based on the sex of caregivers (p=0.928). There was a positive correlation between the age of the patient and MCSI (r=0.373, p<0.001). No correlation was found between the MCSI and age of caregivers (r=-0.108, p=0.230) and duration of stroke (r=-0.089, p=0.321). The findings in our study provide evidence that caregivers of stroke survivors experiencesignificant levels of strain. It is desirable to recognize caregiver strain during the rehabilitation of stroke survivors and manage it appropriately.

THEORETICALLY BASED FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH STROKE FAMILY CAREGIVER HEALTH

Abstract Background Most stroke survivors are cared for at home by family members, many of whom experience depressive symptoms and life changes as a result of providing care. While many studies have explored the factors associated with depressive symptoms and quality of life in family caregivers, few have focused on caregiver health. Purpose: To determine theoretically based factors associated with unhealthy days in stroke family caregivers. Methods A conceptual model derived from Lazarus’ theory of stress and coping was used to guide analysis. Secondary data analysis was conducted using baseline data from a large randomized controlled clinical trial testing the Telephone Assessment and Skill-building Kit (TASK II) program with 254 family caregivers of stroke survivors within 2 weeks of discharge from acute care and rehabilitation settings in participating Midwestern facilities. Data were analyzed using multiple regression with unhealthy days as the dependent variable, and theoretically based factors (i.e., caregiver task difficulty, level of optimism, threat appraisal, depressive symptoms, and life changes) as independent variables. All scales demonstrated evidence of internal consistency reliability with Cronbach alpha scores above .70. Results Caregivers were mostly female (78%), white (71%), spouses (47%) or adult children (30%). Caregivers reported 9 unhealthy days on average within the past month. Unhealthy days were significantly correlated with caregiver task difficulty (r=.32), level of optimism (r=-.29), threat appraisal (r=.44), depressive symptoms (r=.60), and life changes (r=-.40) (p&amp;lt;.05). 37.8% variance in unhealthy days was explained, with depressive symptoms being the only significant individual predictor due to shared variance.

Activity monitoring of stroke patients by physiotherapist and caregivers in a hospital setting: A pilot study.

Activity monitoring is a necessary technique to ensure stroke survivors' activity levels in the hospital are within optimal levels as this is important for enhanced motor recovery. However, this could be time-consuming for healthcare professionals like physiotherapists. Activity monitoring by caregivers could be an alternate option. Therefore, our aim was to compare the activity monitoring of stroke survivors by caregivers and physiotherapists during early phase in a hospital setting. An observation study was carried out in the neuroscience ward in a tertiary care hospital among 17 stroke survivors. Physiotherapist and caregivers were instructed to use an activity log chart that was developed during previous research conducted by the same authors for observing the activities performed by the patients every 15 minutes from 8 AM to 5 PM across one day. Data collected were analysed using Stata 15. Kappa statistics were carried out to determine the agreement of the observations between the two raters. A total of 10 male and seven female caregivers of stroke survivors with a mean age of 40.11 ± 9.2 years and a trained physiotherapist participated in the study. A total of 272 observations of caregivers were in agreement with that of the physiotherapist. Inter-rater Kappa statistics showed 60% agreement between the physiotherapist and the caregivers (p<0.05). There was moderate agreement between the physiotherapist and caregiver for activity monitoring of stroke survivors. This suggests behavioural mapping by caregivers may be a potential alternative solution in healthcare settings.

Exploring the experiences of family caregivers of stroke survivors in Burkina Faso: A qualitative study protocol

Background: Stroke survivors in sub-Saharan Africa frequently require continuous assistance from their relatives for daily activities and personal hygiene care. In Burkina Faso, the experiences of these caregivers are not documented. Purpose: This protocol describes a study that aims to explore in-depth the experiences of the family caregivers of stroke survivors in this region in order to better understanding the real impacts of caregiving on their overall lives. Methods: A convenience sample of twenty family caregivers recruited from both urban and semi-urban regions will be used to conduct a qualitative study. Participants will take part in individual semi-structured online interviews using an interview guide pre-designed by the authors. The interviews will be recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data will then undergo abductive thematic analysis guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework. Expected results: Four main potential themes could eventually emerge. 1) Health and well-being of family caregivers (e.g., physical, psychological, and social impacts, health management, conflicts, and priorities); 2) Balancing caregiving responsibilities and personal life (e.g., daily caregiving management and the impact of caregiving role on social participation); 3) Impact of environment on the caregiving role (e.g., social and physical environment factors); 4) Personal experience and perceptions of the caregiving role (e.g., self-assessment as a caregiver, expectations and needs). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first study of its kind conducted in this country. Therefore, it will make a substantial contribution to stroke research in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in Burkina Faso. Ethical approval: This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Burkina Faso Ministry of Health (No: 2023-07-183). It will be conducted following the prescribed guidelines respecting the confidentiality of participants.

A mixed-methods study on the implementation of a mobile health application (mHealth app) for stroke caregivers in Malaysia: healthcare providers' perspective.

Recognizing the burden experienced by caregivers of stroke survivors, an intervention using mobile health applications (mHealth apps) has been proposed to support and empower stroke caregivers. This study aimed to assess the acceptability and expectations of healthcare providers, who play a vital role as gatekeepers in the healthcare system, to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the intervention. This was a concurrent mixed-method study design, with healthcare providers involved in stroke care management in the northeast regions of Malaysia as study participants. The qualitative component of the study was conducted using a phenomenological approach that involved in-depth interviews to explore the acceptability and expectations of healthcare providers regarding the adoption of mHealth apps in the context of stroke caregiving. The study was complemented by quantitative data collected through an online survey using an adjusted version of the technology acceptance model tool. In total, 239 participants from diverse backgrounds and professions were enrolled in the study, with 12 in the qualitative component and 227 in the quantitative component. The findings from the quantitative survey showed that over 80% of the participants expressed their intention to use mHealth apps. The qualitative component generated two themes related to the acceptability and expectations of mHealth apps, which were integrated with the quantitative findings. Additionally, in-depth interviews revealed a new theme, namely the key features of mHealth, with three sub-themes: availability of services for caregivers, provision of knowledge skills, and supporting caregivers in managing stroke patients. Healthcare providers demonstrated excellent acceptability of this mHealth intervention as part of caregiving assistance, particularly with the inclusion of essential key features. However, future investigations are necessary to establish the feasibility of integrating the mHealth app into the healthcare system and to ensure its long-term sustainability.

A mobile application-based post-stroke care strategy for survivors and their caregivers for prevention and management of post-stroke complications - "Stroke Home Care:" Development and feasibility.

In developing nations such as India, a disparity exists between the available resources for stroke rehabilitation and the substantial burden of stroke cases. Consequently, the provision of cost-effective and multidisciplinary post-stroke rehabilitation care to stroke survivors becomes of paramount importance. The utilization of mobile applications (apps) for stroke care has been on the rise, offering a personalized and pragmatic solution with the potential for wider reach in settings constrained by limited resources. To address the unmet needs in the prevention and management of post-stroke complications, we conceptualized a strategy known as a mobile application-based post-stroke care strategy for both survivors and their caregivers. The scope of the app's focus was determined based on the incidence of post-stroke complications within a prospective cohort of stroke patients, in conjunction with existing literature. An initial "web-based mobile app" prototype was crafted to align with the identified focus area. Before the development of the final app version, a feasibility study was conducted involving 30 participant dyads (comprising a patient and a caregiver). Content validity was evaluated by a panel of 20 stroke experts encompassing neurologists, nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists. The "Stroke Home Care" (SHC) mobile app was conceived as a web-based educational tool aimed at preventing and managing post-stroke complications. It seeks to train caregivers of immobile stroke patients in the administration of preventive and therapeutic care procedures, thereby potentially enhancing survivors' quality of life and alleviating caregivers' burden. The feasibility and validity studies indicated "high satisfaction" levels among most caregivers and experts (>75%), with the remainder expressing "satisfaction" and no "dissatisfaction" regarding app utilities. Stroke experts unanimously deemed the app "appropriate", with consensus on contents, video quality, video length, and voice clarity. Caregivers reported "satisfactory" user experiences, encountering no issues during app installation or operation. Suggestions from both caregivers and experts were integrated into the final app version. The "SHC" app represents a feasible and well-received innovation tailored for the use by caregivers of stroke survivors. Consequently, the initial feasibility of the developed app serves as a precursor to a randomized controlled clinical trial aimed at substantiating its effectiveness within the post-stroke survivor and caregiver population. Notably, within resource-constrained contexts, this app has the potential to be a pivotal tool for post-stroke care.

Prevalence and risks factors of caregiving-related low back pain among caregivers of stroke survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Stroke causes disability that makes its survivors depend on caregivers for help. The caregivers offer help during lifting and transferring patients from one place to another. However, such activities result in the caregivers sustaining musculoskeletal injuries such as the low back pain (LBP). The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of LBP and its risk factors among these caregivers. PubMED, Embase, Web of Science (WoS) and CINAHL were searched until January 2023, and cross-sectional studies were included. Data on prevalence of LBP due to caregiving activities and participants' characteristics such as sex and nature of caregiving were extracted. Risks of bias of the included studies were assessed using Agency for healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) tool. The data were analyzed using both narrative and quantitative syntheses. In the quantitative synthesis, random effect model meta-analysis of the prevalence and odd of developing LBP between men and women; and between partial and complete caregivers was used. Fives studies (N.=644) were included. The results showed that the prevalence of LBP was 53.9%, with 96% CI from 50.0% to 57.8%. In addition, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of developing LBP between men and women (OR=1.58, 95% CI=0.27 to 9.27, P=0.61); and between partial and complete caregivers (OR=1.33, 95% CI=0.32 to 5.61, P=0.70). About half of caregivers of stroke survivors may experience LBP. Therefore, this should be considered during rehabilitation.

Strain and Burden among Caregivers of Stroke Survivors in Punjab: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Caregivers may feel stressed and burdened while caring for a stroke survivor. However, very few studies have assessed the burden among caregivers of Indian stroke patients. Objectives: The present study was done to assess the magnitude and predictors of strain and burden among caregivers of stroke survivors discharged from a tertiary care hospital in Punjab, India. Method: This cross-sectional study included consecutive newly diagnosed stroke patients from January 2021 till April 2022 at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Amritsar, India. The level of strain and burden among the caregivers was assessed using the Caregiver’s strain index (CSI) and Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS) respectively. A minimum sample size of 110 stroke patients was calculated. Odds ratios were calculated for identifying predictors of strain and burden among caregivers using multivariate regression analysis. Results: Mean CSI for all caregivers was 6.67 ± 1.81. Using a cut-off of ≥ 7, authors found 40.2% of the caregivers to have great strain. Modified rankin scale (mRS) at the time of interview (AOR = 2.77, p value = 0.0063), presence of comorbidities in the patient (AOR = 3.07, p value = 0.023 and caregiver being female (AOR = 2.96, p value = 0.036) to be significantly associated with higher odds of having great strain. Using ZCBS, 18.1% had minimal burden, 53.5% had mild to moderate burden, 24.4% had moderate to severe burden and 3.9% had severe burden. mRS at the time of interview (AOR = 5.38, p value = 0.0048), presence of comorbidities in the patient (AOR = 7.63, p value = 0.0031), caregiver being female (AOR = 9.67, p value = 0.0072) and not being at all confident to care (AOR = 4.94, p value = 0.013) to be significantly associated with higher odds of having great burden, while rural residence (AOR = 0.55, p value = 0.0011) was associated with lower odds of high burden. Conclusion: High strain was observed among 40.1% of the care givers of Indian stroke survivors and 24.4% had moderate to severe burden. Thus, the strain and burden among caregivers of Indian stroke patients is very high.

Caregiver burden and its associated factors among primary caregivers of stroke survivors at Amhara regional state tertiary hospitals: a multicenter study

BackgroundCaregivers of stroke survivors play a crucial role in post-stroke functional recovery and the prevention of complications. Although the situation is incredibly stressful and intimidating and the caregiver burden is high, there is little evidence in the local Ethiopian context of the extent of the burden among caregivers of stroke survivors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the level of caregiver burden and its associated factors among primary caregivers of stroke survivors in Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Amhara regional state tertiary hospitals from April to June 2022. A standardized questionnaire was used to record factors associated with caregiver burden, including sociodemographic, clinical, and care situation factors. The Zarit caregiver burden interview (short form) was used to assess the level of caregiver burden. A systematic random sampling method was employed to select the study participants. Multinomial logistic regression was employed to identify the potential factors associated with the level of caregiver burden.ResultsThe overall prevalence burden among primary caregivers of stroke survivors was 67%. 61.1% had a mild to moderate burden, while 5.9% had a severe burden. In multivariable multinomial logistic regression analysis, sex, household income, duration of care, and duration of caregiving hours per day were factors significantly associated with the level of burden among caregivers of stroke survivors.ConclusionsBeing female, having a low household income, caring for more than 3 months, and caring for more than 6 h per day were factors significantly associated with the burdens of the primary caregivers of stroke survivors. It is better: health care providers must recognize and screen for burdens and provide special attention.

Effectiveness of a smartphone-enabled dyadic self-care programme (SDSCP) for stroke survivors and caregivers: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

IntroductionThe promotion of self-care has begun to serve as a central response strategy to the rising burden of stroke. In fact, stroke self-care can be recognised to be a dyad...

Trajectory and predictors of family function in caregivers of stroke survivors: A longitudinal study of the first 6 months after stroke.

This study aimed to investigate the trajectory and predictors of family function in caregivers of stroke survivors during the first 6 months after the first episode of stroke. Longitudinal study. A total of 288 primary caregivers of patients with first-time stroke were recruited from seven tertiary hospitals in China between July 2020 and March 2021. The following characteristics were assessed by caregivers at hospitalization (T0) and at 1 month (T1), 3 months (T2) and 6 months (T3) after the stroke: family function, general self-efficacy, social support, coping style, caregiver burden, and sociodemographic and clinical data. Family function scores among caregivers of stroke survivors were highest in the resolve dimension and lowest in the growth and adaptation dimensions within the first 6 months. The percentages of families with low functioning were 34.7%, 33.3%, 24.8% and 17.7% at T0, T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The generalized estimating equation model revealed that family function in caregivers increased over the first 6 months (Exp(B) = 1.415-2.689, p < .05). The following factors were identified as predictors of family functioning: caregiver's age, education, residential district, self-efficacy, social support utilization and caregiver burden. Family function of caregivers of stroke survivors gradually increased during the first 6 months after stroke. However, some families demonstrated poor functioning. Caregivers' age, education, caregiver burden, self-efficacy and social support utilization could predict family function over time. Empirical data on family function in families of stroke survivors are important for developing psychosocial interventions that can help families adapt to stroke. This study found that families of stroke survivors were likely to be dysfunctional in the first 6 months after stroke, particularly in family growth and adaptation. Therefore, reducing caregiver burden and promoting self-efficacy and social support utilization can help restore family functioning early after stroke. Stroke caregivers from seven hospitals in China were involved in this study and had the right to be informed of the main findings. A few patients were informed of the research results, who contributed to the dissemination.

Depressive Symptoms and Its Associated Factors Among Primary Caregivers of Stroke Survivors at Amhara Regional State Tertiary Hospitals: Multicenter Study.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of severe disability and functional limitation, which are reasons for being dependent on their family for daily activities and participation in social affairs. After discharge from the hospital, most stroke survivors require physical, psychosocial, and financial support from caregivers at home, which is one of the most stressful events for families. The stroke survivors and their caregivers may influence each other during the caregiving process and social life. The stroke survivor's disability and depressive symptoms affect the quality of life of the survivor and their caregivers. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depression among caregivers of stroke survivors. An institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in Amhara regional state tertiary hospitals. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select 424 participants. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered and chart-reviewed structured questionnaire. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with depression. Adjusting the odds ratio with the corresponding 95% confidence interval and variables with a P-value < 0.05 was considered significantly associated with depression. The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms was 65.6% (95% CI: 60.8-69.8). Being female, older than 40, having no formal education, having a low family monthly income, being the son or daughter, and spending more than six hours per day were associated with depression. We found that depression was prevalent among primary caregivers of stroke survivors. To reduce the risk of developing depression, policymakers should fully recognize the role of caregivers in caring for stroke patients. More attention should be given to caregivers who are female, elderly, have a low income, are sons or daughters, and spend a long time caring per day.

Family Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: OT &amp; Mental Health &amp; Wellness

Abstract Date Presented 04/22/2023 Helping relatives with stroke can be demanding. This study explored how OTs address mental health and wellness with family caregivers. Findings can guide education of clinicians and contribute to policy change. Primary Author and Speaker: Emili Husain Additional Authors and Speakers: Kathleen Kniepmann Contributing Authors: Kathleen Kniepmann