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Blake JA, Long DL, Knight AJ, Goodin BR, Crowe M, Judd SE, Rhodes JD, Roth DL, Clay OJ. Stroke Severity, Caregiver Feedback, and Cognition in the REGARDS-CARES Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e033375. [PMID: 39056351 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.033375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment after stroke is common and is present in up to 60% of survivors. Stroke severity, indicated by both volume and location, is the most consequential predictor of cognitive impairment, with severe strokes predicting higher chances of cognitive impairment. The current investigation examines the associations of 2 stroke severity ratings and a caregiver-report of poststroke functioning with longitudinal cognitive outcomes. METHODS AND RESULTS One hundred fifty-seven caregivers and stroke survivor dyads participated in the CARES (Caring for Adults Recovering From the Effects of Stroke) project, an ancillary study of the REGARDS (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) national cohort study. The Glasgow Outcome Scale and modified Rankin Scale scores collected at hospitalization discharge were included as 2 primary predictors of cognitive impairment. The number of caregiver-reported problems and impairments at 9 months following stroke were included as a third predictor. Cognition was measured using a biennial telephone battery and included the domains of learning, memory, and executive functioning. Multiple cognitive assessments were analyzed up to 5 years poststroke, controlling for prestroke cognition and demographic variables of the stroke survivor. Separate mixed models showed significant main effects of the Glasgow Outcome Scale (b=0.3380 [95% CI, 0.14-0.5]; P=0.0009), modified Rankin Scale (b=-0.2119 [95% CI, -0.32 to -0.10]; P=0.0002), and caregiver-reported problems (b=-0.0671 [95% CI, -0.09 to -0.04]; P<0.0001) on longitudinal cognitive scores. In a combined model including all 3 predictors, only caregiver-reported problems significantly predicted cognition (b=-0.0480 [95% CI, -0.08 to -0.03]; P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS These findings emphasize the importance of caregiver feedback in predicting cognitive consequences of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Blake
- Department of Psychology University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - D Leann Long
- Department of Biostatistics University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - Amy J Knight
- Department of Neurology University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - Burel R Goodin
- Department of Anesthesiology Washington University in St. Louis St. Louis MO
| | - Michael Crowe
- Department of Psychology University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - Suzanne E Judd
- Department of Biostatistics University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - J David Rhodes
- Department of Biostatistics University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
| | - David L Roth
- Center on Aging and Health Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD
| | - Olivio J Clay
- Department of Psychology University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL
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Blake JA, Long DL, Knight AJ, Goodin BR, Crowe M, Judd SE, Rhodes JD, Roth DL, Clay OJ. Stroke Severity, Caregiver Feedback, and Cognition in the REGARDS-CARES Study. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2023.10.26.23297649. [PMID: 37961600 PMCID: PMC10635206 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.26.23297649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective Cognitive impairment after stroke is common, present up to 60% of survivors. Stroke severity, indicated by both volume and location, is the most consequential predictor of cognitive impairment, with severe strokes predicting higher chances of cognitive impairment. The current investigation examines the associations of two stroke severity ratings and a caregiver-report of post-stroke functioning with longitudinal cognitive outcomes. Methods The analysis was conducted on 157 caregivers and stroke survivor dyads who participated in the Caring for Adults Recovering from the Effects of Stroke (CARES) project, an ancillary study of the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) national cohort study. Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) collected at hospitalization discharge were included as two primary predictors of cognitive impairment. The number of caregiver-reported problems and impairments at nine months following stroke were included as a third predictor. Cognition was assessed using a biennial telephone battery, incorporating multiple cognitive assessments to assess learning, memory, and executive functioning. Longitudinal cognitive scores were analyzed up to five years post-stroke, controlling for baseline (pre-stroke) cognitive scores and demographic variables of each stroke survivor collected at CARES baseline. Results Separate mixed models showed significant main effects of GOS (b=0.3280, p=0.0009), mRS (b=-0.2119, p=0.0002), and caregiver-reported impairments (b=-0.0671, p<0.0001) on longitudinal cognitive scores. In a combined model including all three predictors, only caregiver-reported problems significantly predicted cognitive outcomes (b=-0.0480, p<0.0001). Impact These findings underscore the importance of incorporating caregivers feedback in understanding cognitive consequences of stroke.
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Terrill AL, Reblin M, MacKenzie JJ, Baucom BRW, Einerson J, Cardell B, Richards L, Majersik JJ. Promoting Resilience After Stroke in Dyads (ReStoreD): A Supplemental Analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 104:1580-1587. [PMID: 37075965 PMCID: PMC10543397 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine preliminary effects of ReStoreD (Resilience after Stroke in Dyads) on resilience in couples coping with stroke-related challenges. DESIGN Supplemental analysis of prospective pilot trial with pre-/post-assessments and 3-month follow-up. SETTING Community. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-four cohabitating stroke-care partner dyads (N=34); at least 3 months post-stroke. INTERVENTIONS 8-week self-administered dyadic intervention (ReStoreD) consisting of activities completed individually and as a couple. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. RESULTS Care partner baseline resilience scores were significantly higher than persons with stroke scores. Repeated-measures analysis of variance suggest significant pre-post improvement in resilience for persons with stroke (mean difference [I - J]=-2.42, SE=.91, P=.04, 95% CI [-4.75, -0.08]) with a large effect size (η2=.34), which was maintained at 3-month follow-up. Care partners showed no significant change over time. CONCLUSIONS This study provides preliminary evidence that ReStoreD improves resilience in persons with stroke. More research is needed to address resilience in care partners. These findings represent a promising first step to address the mental health needs in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Terrill
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT.
| | - Maija Reblin
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | - Justin J MacKenzie
- Division of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Brian R W Baucom
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Jackie Einerson
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Beth Cardell
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Lorie Richards
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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Einerson J, Lundstrom LK, Allen BK, Sefandonakis A, Terrill AL. Learning to flourish in a new reality: a thematic analysis of couples' experience of participation in a positive psychology intervention post-stroke. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:2612-2619. [PMID: 35914538 PMCID: PMC10508046 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2102256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Explore the experiences of couples engaging in a positive psychology intervention post-stroke (ReStoreD: Promoting Resilience after Stroke in Dyads). MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a secondary analysis of qualitative data collected following an 8-week self-administered dyadic positive psychology intervention (Clinical Trial number: NCT03335358). Participants included dyads consisting of one partner who had a stroke at least three months prior and their cohabiting partner. Couples had to be community-dwelling and one or both had to report depressive symptoms. A thematic analysis was conducted on semi-structured feedback interviews from 26 dyads (n = 77 interviews). RESULTS Two primary themes with multiple secondary themes were identified, depicting the experiences of couples post-stroke while engaging in the ReStoreD intervention. Primary and secondary themes included: changes in self (learning about the self, building new coping strategies, and acting with intention) and changes in the relationship (awareness of spouse, spending more positive time together, being more intentional in the relationship, and increased/improved communication). CONCLUSIONS Individuals and couples post-stroke often experience negative mood changes, poor health outcomes, and decreased participation. Implementation of ReStoreD activities in the clinical setting can be a valuable and impactful way to encourage and foster positive experiences and re-engagement post-stroke.Implications for RehabilitationThrough dyadic positive psychology intervention activities, rehabilitation professionals can build upon existing strengths and resources to encourage couples to increase their awareness and development of positive coping strategies as individuals and couples.Positive psychology intervention activities can be implemented by rehabilitation professionals at inpatient and outpatient settings through self-directed, low-cost, and time-efficient strategies to increase engagement in positive activities at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Einerson
- Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lauren K. Lundstrom
- Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Brieanna K. Allen
- Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Artemis Sefandonakis
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alexandra L. Terrill
- Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Uncertainty among families of patients with cerebrovascular diseases in Japan: association with quality of life and background characteristics. Aging Clin Exp Res 2022; 34:3097-3105. [PMID: 36181638 PMCID: PMC9526199 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-022-02254-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To determine the relationship between family uncertainty and family quality of life (QOL) during the recovery period of patients with cerebrovascular disease in Japan, and the factors that influence family uncertainty. Methods Data were collected from copies of patient medical files and interviews with family members of 85 patients admitted to two rehabilitation wards in Japan. Family uncertainty was measured using the Japanese version of the Managing Uncertainty in Illness Scale–Family Member form (MUIS-FM) and family QOL using the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5). Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to investigate associated factors. Results WHO-5 score was significantly negatively associated with MUIS-FM score (β = − 0.236, p = 0.03); other factors associated with MUIS-FM score were the Care Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire for care providers score (β = − 0.384, p < 0.001), Short Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale score (β = 0.296, p = 0.001), and history of surgical treatment (β = 0.199, p = 0.032). Conclusions Family QOL could be improved by reducing family uncertainty. It is also suggested that promoting shared decision-making between healthcare providers and patients’ families may help reduce family uncertainty. It is necessary to take into account not only family intolerance of uncertainty but also uncertainty that varies by type of acute care provided. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40520-022-02254-1.
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Liu J, Lou Y, Li LW, Xu H, Zhang Z. Dyadic effects on depressive symptoms of spouse caregivers and their care recipients: evidence from China. Aging Ment Health 2022:1-10. [PMID: 35694965 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2087212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The likelihood of providing care to a spouse in middle and older ages has increased as life expectancy increases, but knowledge about how the caregiver and care recipient influence each other's mental health is limited. This study examined whether a partner's physical, cognitive, and mental health in a spousal caregiving dyad are associated with the other partner's depressive symptoms in China and whether the dyadic effects vary by gender. METHODS This study used data from Wave 3 (2015) and Wave 4 (2018) follow-up surveys of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The analytic sample featured 1,245 dyads of care recipients aged 45 or older and their spouse caregivers. The Actor-Partner Interdependence Model was used to test the dyadic effects among all couples in the analytic sample, couples with wife caregivers and couples with husband caregivers, respectively. RESULTS We found that caregiver's depressive symptoms at Wave 3 were significantly associated with care recipient's depressive symptoms at Wave 4 in the full sample. Regardless of caregiver or care recipient roles, wives' mental health was impacted by their husbands' depressive symptoms, but not vice versa. Wife recipient's cognitive impairment was associated with husband caregiver's lower depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION This study sheds light on the mental health of couples in the context of caregiving in China. The findings indicate that interventions to support couples in a caregiving dyad need to consider the influence they have on each other, and the gender and health conditions of each in the dyad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Liu
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yifan Lou
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lydia W Li
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hongwei Xu
- Department of Sociology, Queens College - CUNY, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zhenmei Zhang
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Elsheikh MA, Moriyama M, Rahman MM, Kako M, El-Monshed AH, Zoromba M, Zehry H, Khalil MH, El-Gilany AH, Amr M. Effect of a tailored multidimensional intervention on the care burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors: a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e049741. [PMID: 35168963 PMCID: PMC8852666 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of a tailored multidimensional intervention in reducing the care burden of family caregivers of stroke survivors. This intervention considered caregivers' perceived needs and incorporated three evidence-based dimensions (psychoeducation, skill-building and peer support). DESIGN A prospective randomised control trial. SETTING A community-based study conducted in Egypt. PARTICIPANTS A total of 110 caregivers aged ≥18 years who cared for a survivor within 6 months of stroke, with modified Rankin Scale scores of 3-5, and without other physical disabilities or terminal illnesses were recruited between December 2019 and May 2020. Participants were assigned to the intervention group (IG; n=55) and control group (CG; n=55) through open-label, parallel 1:1 randomisation. INTERVENTION The IG was provided with tailored multidimensional interventions for 6 months until November 2020, including three home visits, six home-based telephone calls and one peer-support session. The CG received simple educational instructions at a single visit. OUTCOME The participants completed the Zarit Burden Interview (primary outcome) and the WHO Quality of Life-BREF (secondary outcome) before the intervention (T0), at 3 months (T1) and at 6 months (T2). RESULTS No differences were observed between the characteristics of the groups at baseline (T0). The independent t-test showed no significant differences in the care burden and Quality of Life (QoL) at T1 and T2 between the groups. The intervention had no significant effect on the outcomes between or within groups over time, as shown by the repeated-measures analysis of variance. However, the group and time interaction had significant main effects on caregivers' QoL (psychological and social domains). CONCLUSION The main results showed that participants in the IG did not experience an improvement in the main outcomes. Nevertheless, the improvement in the psychological and social domains may have been attributed to our intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04211662.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Ahmed Elsheikh
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Community Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Michiko Moriyama
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Md Moshiur Rahman
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mayumi Kako
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ahmed Hashem El-Monshed
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Nursing Department, College of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Bahrain, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Mohamed Zoromba
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hamada Zehry
- New Mansoura General Hospital, Neurology, Egypt Ministry of Health and Population, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Maha Hazem Khalil
- Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Mostafa Amr
- Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Lou VW, Tang JYM, Lau GKK, Lum TYS, Fong K, Ko RWT, Cheng CYM, Fu JY, Chow ESL, Chu ACK, Hui E, Ng WWL, Chan FHW, Luk CC, Kwok TK. Effectiveness of a Two-Tier Family-Oriented Intervention in Enhancing the Family Functioning and Care Capacity of the Family Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e16703. [PMID: 34047707 PMCID: PMC8196356 DOI: 10.2196/16703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stroke has profound impacts on families. Often, family members, including stroke survivors and the person who takes up the role of the primary caregiver, would encounter demands on finances, rehabilitation arrangement, and even conflicts. Hence, a family-oriented intervention is expected to enable families to rebuild internal and external resources to achieve optimal rehabilitation and community reintegration. Objective This study aims to describe a design of a two-tier family-oriented care management intervention for enhancing the family functioning and care capacity of the caregivers of stroke survivors. Methods The two-tier care management intervention was guided by a standardized protocol conducted by trained professional care managers (first tier) with the support of trained volunteers (second tier), which lasted for 8-12 weeks. Participants were recruited through collaborating hospitals according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. In order to examine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the two-tier care management intervention, a two-arm randomization multicenter study was designed, including an active comparison group, which was guided by a standardized protocol conducted by trained volunteers. Dyadic participants, including both stroke survivors and their primary caregivers for both groups, were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey using standardized and purposefully developed measures 3 times: before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 2 months after the intervention. The primary outcome was family functioning measured by the Family Role Performance Scale and Family Assessment Device-General Functioning Scale. The secondary outcomes included caregiving burden, depressive symptoms, care management strategies, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Results Recruitment began in January 2017 and was completed at the end of April 2019. Data collection was completed at the end of March 2020. As of March 2020, enrollment has been completed (n=264 stroke caregivers). A total of 200 participants completed the baseline questionnaires. We aim to publish the results by mid-2021. Conclusions This study successfully developed a two-tier care management protocol that aims to enhance the family functioning of the caregivers of stroke survivors. Guided by a standardized protocol, this family-oriented two-tier intervention protocol was found to be feasible among Chinese families. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03034330; https://ichgcp.net/clinical-trials-registry/NCT03034330 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR1-10.2196/16703
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Weiqun Lou
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Gary Kui Kai Lau
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Terry Yat Sang Lum
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kenneth Fong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Rachel Wai Tung Ko
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Joyce Yinqi Fu
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Eddie Siu Lun Chow
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Angus Chun Kwok Chu
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Elsie Hui
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Shatin Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie Wing Ling Ng
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Shatin Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Felix Hon Wai Chan
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Fung Yiu King Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - C C Luk
- Queen Mary Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - T K Kwok
- Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tung Wah Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Elsheikh MA, Moriyama M, Rahman MM, Kako M, El-Monshed AH, Zoromba M, Zehry H, Khalil MH, Amr M. Effect of a tailored multidimensional intervention on the care burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e041637. [PMID: 33323445 PMCID: PMC7745514 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Caring for stroke survivors creates high levels of care burden among family caregivers. Previous initiatives at alleviating the care burden have been unsuccessful. The proposed study aims to evaluate the effect of a tailored multidimensional intervention on the care burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors. Based on the perceived needs of family caregivers, this intervention takes into account scientific recommendations to combine three different approaches: skill-building, psychoeducation and peer support. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Using a prospective, randomised, open-label, parallel-group design, 110 family caregivers will be enrolled from Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt between December 2019 and May 2020, and randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The tailored multidimensional intervention will be administered for 6 months, including three home visits, six home-based telephone calls and one peer support session. The primary outcome is the care burden as measured using the Zarit Burden Interview. Secondary outcomes include changes in the family caregivers' perceived needs (Family Needs Questionnaire-Revised), coping strategies (Brief-Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced) and quality of life (WHO Quality of Life-BREF). Outcomes evaluation will be conducted at baseline (T0), month 3 (T1) and month 6 (T2). Independent t-test will be performed to compare the mean values of study variables between the two groups at both T1 and T2. After adjusting for confounding variables, analysis of covariance will be used to assess the effect of the intervention. In addition, repeated measures analysis of variance will be conducted to assess changes in effect over time. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt (P.0195). The results will be published in a scientific peer-reviewed journal, and findings will be disseminated at the local and international levels. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04211662.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Ahmed Elsheikh
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Community Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Michiko Moriyama
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Md Moshiur Rahman
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mayumi Kako
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ahmed Hashem El-Monshed
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Zoromba
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hamada Zehry
- New Mansoura General Hospital, Neurology, Ministry of Health and Population, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Mostafa Amr
- Psychiatry, Mansoura University Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura, Egypt
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10
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Mei YX, Lin B, Zhang W, Yang DB, Wang SS, Zhang ZX, Cheung DSK. Benefits finding among Chinese family caregivers of stroke survivors: a qualitative descriptive study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038344. [PMID: 33077565 PMCID: PMC7574945 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The caregiving experience includes both caregiver burdens and benefits finding. However, the benefits obtained by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings are unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the benefits experienced by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was used, fulfilling the consolidated criteria for the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guidelines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 family caregivers of stroke survivors. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed. Thematic analysis was performed to analyse the interview transcripts. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Home interviews were conducted with family caregivers of stroke survivors in two communities in Zhengzhou, China. RESULTS The family caregivers of stroke survivors experienced various benefits from caregiving. There were both internal benefits (increases in knowledge and skills, the development of positive attitudes, and the development of a sense of worthiness and achievement) and external benefits (family growth and gains in social support), which interact to create a healthy lifestyle. CONCLUSION Our findings provide a comprehensive perspective in understanding the benefits perceived by family caregivers of stroke survivors. This study provides insights into interventions focused on identifying benefits finding in six domains that may help reduce negative emotions and promote the mental health of caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Xia Mei
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Teaching office, The People's Hospital of Hebi, Hebi, China
| | - Beilei Lin
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weihong Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dong-Bin Yang
- Teaching office, The People's Hospital of Hebi, Hebi, China
| | - Shan-Shan Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhen-Xiang Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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11
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Feldner HA, Papazian C, Peters K, Steele KM. "It's All Sort of Cool and Interesting…but What Do I Do With It?" A Qualitative Study of Stroke Survivors' Perceptions of Surface Electromyography. Front Neurol 2020; 11:1037. [PMID: 33041981 PMCID: PMC7527473 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.01037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stroke is one of the most common neurologic injuries worldwide. Over decades, evidence-based neurorehabilitation research and advancements in wireless, wearable sensor design have supported the deployment of technologies to facilitate recovery after stroke. Surface electromyography (sEMG) is one such technology, however, clinical application remains limited. To understand this translational practice gap and improve clinical uptake, it is essential to include stakeholder voices in an analysis of neurorehabilitation practice, the acceptability of current sEMG technologies, and facilitators and barriers to sEMG use in the clinic and the community. The purpose of this study was to foreground the perspectives of stroke survivors to gain a better understanding of their experiences in neurorehabilitation, the technologies they have used during their recovery, and their opinions of lab-designed and commercially-available sEMG systems. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological study was completed. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight stroke survivors (age range 49-78 years, 6 months to 12 years post-stroke) and two caregivers from a large metropolitan region. A demonstration of four sEMG systems was provided to gather perceptions of sensor design, features and function, and user interface. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded for analysis using constant comparison until data saturation was reached. Results: Three themes emerged from the data: (1) "Surface EMG has potential….but…" highlights the recognition of sEMG as a valuable tool but reveals a lack of understanding and need for clear meaning from the data; (2) "Tracking incremental progress over days or years is important" highlights the persistence of hope and potential benefit of sEMG in detecting small changes that may inform neurorehabilitation practice and policy; and (3) "Neurorehabilitation technology is cumbersome" highlights the tension between optimizing therapy time and trying new technologies, managing cost, logistics and set-up, and desired technology features. Conclusion: Further translation of sEMG technology for neurorehabilitation holds promise for stroke survivors, but sEMG system design and user interface needs refinement. The process of using sEMG technology and products must be simple and provide meaningful insight to recovery. Including stroke survivors directly in translational efforts is essential to improve uptake in clinical environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A. Feldner
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Christina Papazian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Keshia Peters
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Katherine M. Steele
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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12
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Blanton S, Clark PC, Cotsonis G, Dunbar SB. Factors associated with depressive symptoms of carepartners of stroke survivors after discharge from rehabilitation therapy. Top Stroke Rehabil 2020; 27:590-600. [PMID: 32160824 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2020.1738678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The long-term consequences of stroke affect both the carepartner (CP) and stroke survivor (SS). Understanding the effects of informal caregiving that may influence the ability of the family to carry over therapeutic activities in the home environment is critical for family-centered care.Objective: This study examined the relationship of CP and SS factors associated with CP depressive symptoms to gain insights into CP needs that may occur after formal rehabilitation therapy has ended for SS with upper extremity deficits.Methods: This correlational study used baseline data of 32 dyads of family CP and SS with upper extremity impairment who had completed rehabilitation therapy and were enrolled in a pilot study of a web-based CP-integrated rehabilitation program. Data using standard questionnaires for CP factors and SS memory and behavior problems and an objective assessment of SS upper extremity function were obtained. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and Pearson product moment correlations.Results: CPs were female (62.5%), White (61.29%), and spouses (68.75%). CPs reported mild-moderate depressive symptoms (M = 9.5 ± 8.3), and a majority had some degree of family conflict. Higher CP depressive symptoms were related to worse life changes (r = -0.41, p =.02), greater fatigue (r = 0.50, p =.004), less effective family functioning (r = 0.46, p =.01), less autonomy support to SS (r = -0.42, p =.02), and more SS memory and behavior problems (r = 0.45, p =.01). Only CP fatigue was related to SS upper extremity function.Conclusions: Negative impacts of caregiving were found in this group of relatively high physically functioning SS which may hinder CP from providing optimal support for SS. Addressing CP needs including education regarding depression, fatigue, SS memory, and behavior problems, and family functioning while SS is receiving rehabilitation therapy may be important considerations to help facilitate the CP to support the SS in carrying over therapeutic activities in the home environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Blanton
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patricia C Clark
- Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - George Cotsonis
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sandra B Dunbar
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Roth DL, Haley WE, Sheehan OC, Liu C, Clay OJ, Rhodes JD, Judd SE, Dhamoon M. Depressive Symptoms After Ischemic Stroke: Population-Based Comparisons of Patients and Caregivers With Matched Controls. Stroke 2019; 51:54-60. [PMID: 31818230 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.119.027039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Purpose- Persistent depression after ischemic stroke is common in stroke survivors and may be even higher in family caregivers, but few studies have examined depressive symptom levels and their predictors in patient and caregiver groups simultaneously. Methods- Stroke survivors and their family caregivers (205 dyads) were enrolled from the national REGARDS study (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) into the CARES study (Caring for Adults Recovering from the Effects of Stroke) ≈9 months after a first-time ischemic stroke. Demographically matched stroke-free dyads (N=205) were also enrolled. Participants were interviewed by telephone, and depressive symptoms were assessed with the 20-item Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale. Results- Significant elevations in depressive symptoms (Ps<0.03) were observed for stroke survivors (M=8.38) and for their family caregivers (M=6.42) relative to their matched controls (Ms=5.18 and 4.62, respectively). Stroke survivors reported more symptoms of depression than their caregivers (P=0.008). No race or sex differences were found, but differential prediction of depressive symptom levels was found across patients and caregivers. Younger age and having an older caregiver were associated with more depressive symptoms in stroke survivors while being a spouse caregiver and reporting fewer positive aspects of caregiving were associated with more depressive symptoms in caregivers. The percentage of caregivers at risk for clinically significant depression was lower in this population-based sample (12%) than in previous studies of caregivers from convenience or clinical samples. Conclusions- High depressive symptom levels are common 9 months after first-time ischemic strokes for stroke survivors and family caregivers, but rates of depressive symptoms at risk for clinical depression were lower for caregivers than previously reported. Predictors of depression differ for patients and caregivers, and standards of care should incorporate family caregiving factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Roth
- From the Center on Aging and Health, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD (D.L.R., O.C.S., C.L.)
| | - William E Haley
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa (W.E.H.)
| | - Orla C Sheehan
- From the Center on Aging and Health, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD (D.L.R., O.C.S., C.L.)
| | - Chelsea Liu
- From the Center on Aging and Health, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD (D.L.R., O.C.S., C.L.)
| | - Olivio J Clay
- Department of Psychology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences (O.J.C.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - J David Rhodes
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (J.D.R., S.E.J.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Suzanne E Judd
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (J.D.R., S.E.J.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Mandip Dhamoon
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY (M.D.)
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Terrill AL, Reblin M, MacKenzie JJ, Cardell B, Einerson J, Berg CA, Majersik JJ, Richards L. Development of a novel positive psychology-based intervention for couples post-stroke. Rehabil Psychol 2019; 63:43-54. [PMID: 29553781 DOI: 10.1037/rep0000181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stroke provides challenges for survivors and partner caregivers. Stroke survivors and caregivers are interconnected in their emotional health, including depression, a common stroke sequelae. The purpose of this study was to develop and test the feasibility of a dyadic positive psychology-based intervention (PPI) for couples coping poststroke. DESIGN Community-dwelling couples consisted of 1 partner who had a stroke ≥6 months ago and a cohabiting partner caregiver. One or both partner(s) had to report depressive symptoms. The PPI consisted of 1 brief face-to-face training session and an 8-week self-administered intervention in which participants were instructed to engage in at least 2 activities alone and 2 together each week. Two dyads were randomly assigned to a waitlist control to test feasibility of this process. Baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up assessments and post-program feedback were obtained. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sample characteristics, recruitment and retention rates, adherence, key pre- and postintervention outcomes, and satisfaction with the intervention. RESULTS Eleven of 20 couples responding to recruitment letters were enrolled in the study. Ten of 11 dyads completed the program. All participants engaged in activities for at least 6 of 8 weeks. Feedback data indicated participant satisfaction with the intervention, and key outcome measures demonstrated adequate variability. CONCLUSIONS The self-administered dyadic PPI is feasible for implementation with couples poststroke. The PPI represents a first step in a novel dyadic approach in this population. Recruitment, enrollment and attrition rates, and feedback will be used to inform a larger randomized trial. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maija Reblin
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center
| | | | - Beth Cardell
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah
| | - Jackie Einerson
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah
| | | | | | - Lorie Richards
- Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies, University of Utah
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We Are Caregivers: Social Identity Is Associated with Lower Perceived Stress among Rural Informal Caregivers. Can J Aging 2018; 38:59-75. [PMID: 30404674 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980818000430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACTInformal caregivers often experience high stress levels with little support, especially in rural settings. With a mixed-methods approach, this research explored experiences of rural informal caregivers, including how social identification as a caregiver, social interactions, and formal and informal coping support related to perceived stress. Major focus group themes (n = 8) included lacking available services, balancing challenges, unmet practical needs, and strong community identity. Survey data (n = 22) revealed that perceived coping support (e.g., having someone to turn to), social interactions, and caregiver identity (e.g., perceiving the role as important to one's self-concept) were associated with lower life upset stress, but only caregiver identity was associated with managing the personal distress and negative feelings associated with caregiving stress. Results suggest that, although available rural services may fall short, other options might alleviate caregiver stress, including facilitating access to coping support, encouraging social interactions, and enhancing caregiver social identity.
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16
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de Araújo Freitas Moreira KL, Ábalos-Medina GM, Villaverde-Gutiérrez C, Gomes de Lucena NM, Belmont Correia de Oliveira A, Pérez-Mármol JM. Effectiveness of two home ergonomic programs in reducing pain and enhancing quality of life in informal caregivers of post-stroke patients: A pilot randomized controlled clinical trial. Disabil Health J 2018; 11:471-477. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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17
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Bunketorp-Käll L, Lundgren-Nilsson Å, Nilsson M, Blomstrand C. Multimodal rehabilitation in the late phase after stroke enhances the life situation of informal caregivers. Top Stroke Rehabil 2017; 25:161-167. [PMID: 29237339 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2017.1413761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The burden of caregiving for stroke survivors is well known, but the effect of late stroke rehabilitation on the life situation of informal caregivers is unknown. Here, we assessed changes in the life situation of informal caregivers of stroke survivors enrolled in a multimodal intervention trial. Methods This controlled study was a questionnaire-based survey accompanying a three-armed randomized controlled trial of 123 stroke survivors. The care recipients of 106 caregivers who chose to participate were assigned to rhythm-and-music-based therapy (R-MT; n = 37), horse-riding therapy (H-RT; n = 37), or delayed intervention (control group, n = 32). Perceived changes in the life situation of the caregivers were evaluated with the Life Situation among Spouses after the Stroke Event (LISS) questionnaire before randomization, after the 12-week intervention, and 3 and 6 months later. Results After the intervention, the change in the median LISS score was significantly higher among intervention caregivers (1.5 [interquartile range (IQR) 8.8]) than controls (1.5 [IQR 8.8] vs. 0.0 [IQR 12.0], p = 0.036). The improvement was maintained at 3 months (1.5 [IQR 9.0] vs. 0.0 [IQR 10.5], p = 0.039) but not at 6 months (p = 0.284). Conclusion Engaging stroke survivors in multimodal interventions late after stroke appears to have potential to produce gains also in the general life situation of informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Bunketorp-Käll
- a Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
| | - Åsa Lundgren-Nilsson
- a Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden.,b Stroke Center West, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
| | - Michael Nilsson
- a Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden.,c Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia
| | - Christian Blomstrand
- a Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden.,b Stroke Center West, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
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18
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Mei Y, Lin B, Li Y, Ding C, Zhang Z. Validity and reliability of Chinese version of Adult Carer Quality of Life questionnaire (AC-QoL) in family caregivers of stroke survivors. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186680. [PMID: 29131845 PMCID: PMC5683601 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Adult Carer Quality of Life questionnaire (AC-QoL) is a reliable and valid instrument used to assess the quality of life (QoL) of adult family caregivers. We explored the psychometric properties and tested the reliability and validity of a Chinese version of the AC-QoL with reliability and validity testing in 409 Chinese stroke caregivers. We used item-total correlation and extreme group comparison to do item analysis. To evaluate its reliability, we used a test-retest reliability approach, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), together with Cronbach’s alpha and model-based internal consistency index; to evaluate its validity, we used scale content validity, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) via principal component analysis with varimax rotation. We found that the CFA did not in fact confirm the original factor model and our EFA yielded a 31-item measure with a five-factor model. In conclusions, although some items performed differently in our analysis of the original English language version and our Chinese language version, our translated AC-QoL is a reliable and valid tool which can be used to assess the quality of life of stroke caregivers in mainland China. Chinese version AC-QoL is a comprehensive and good measurement to understand caregivers and has the potential to be a screening tool to assess QoL of caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxia Mei
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Unites States of America
| | - Beilei Lin
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingshuang Li
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunge Ding
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenxiang Zhang
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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19
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Stroke Survivor and Family Caregiver Reports of Caregiver Engagement in Stroke Care. Rehabil Nurs 2017; 44:302-310. [PMID: 31689247 DOI: 10.1097/rnj.0000000000000100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Persson J, Levin LÅ, Holmegaard L, Redfors P, Jood K, Jern C, Blomstrand C, Forsberg-Wärleby G. Stroke survivors' long-term QALY-weights in relation to their spouses' QALY-weights and informal support: a cross-sectional study. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2017; 15:150. [PMID: 28743277 PMCID: PMC5526309 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-017-0724-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare interventions that have positive effects on the stroke survivors’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) might also have positive effects for their spouses in terms of improved HRQoL and/or reduced spousal informal support. However, knowledge about stroke survivors’ HRQoL and QALY and the consequences for their spouses’ HRQoL and QALY is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the HRQoL and QALY-weights in dyads of stroke survivors in comparison with dyads of healthy controls, and to study the relationship between the stroke survivors’ QALY-weights and consequences for spouses in terms of QALY-weight and annual cost of informal support, using a long-term perspective. Methods Data on stroke survivors, controls, and spouses were collected from the seven-year follow-up of the Sahlgrenska Academy Study on Ischemic Stroke (SAHLSIS). HRQoL was assessed by the SF-36, and the preference-based health state values were assessed with the SF-6D. The magnitude of the support was assessed with a study specific time-diary. An ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was used to estimate the association between stroke survivors’ and spouses’ QALY-weights. A two-part econometric model was used to estimate the association between stroke survivors’ QALY-weights and the time spent and cost of spouses’ informal support. Results Cohabitant dyads of 248 stroke survivors’ aged <70 at stroke onset and 245 controls were included in the study. Stroke survivors had lower HRQoL in the SF-36 domains physical functioning, physical role, general health, vitality (P < 0.001), and social functioning (P = 0.005) in comparison with their cohabitant spouses. There was no significant difference in HRQoL for the dyads of controls. The results from the regression analyses showed that lower QALY-weights of the stroke survivors were associated with lower QALY-weights of their spouses and increased annual cost of spousal informal support. Conclusion Our results show that the QALY-weights for stroke survivors had consequences for their spouses in terms of annual cost of spousal informal support and QALY-weights. Hence, economic evaluation of interventions that improve the HRQoL of the stroke survivors but ignore the consequences for their spouses may underestimate the value of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefine Persson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,Health Metrics, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg & Centre for Health Economics (CHEGU), University of Gothenburg, Box 414, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Lars-Åke Levin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Medical and Health Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lukas Holmegaard
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Petra Redfors
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Katarina Jood
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Christina Jern
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Christian Blomstrand
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Stroke Centre West the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Forsberg-Wärleby
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Bakas T, Austin JK, Habermann B, Jessup NM, McLennon SM, Mitchell PH, Morrison G, Yang Z, Stump TE, Weaver MT. Telephone Assessment and Skill-Building Kit for Stroke Caregivers: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Stroke 2015; 46:3478-87. [PMID: 26549488 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.115.011099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There are few evidence-based programs for stroke family caregivers postdischarge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate efficacy of the Telephone Assessment and Skill-Building Kit (TASK II), a nurse-led intervention enabling caregivers to build skills based on assessment of their own needs. METHODS A total of 254 stroke caregivers (primarily female TASK II/information, support, and referral 78.0%/78.6%; white 70.7%/72.1%; about half spouses 48.4%/46.6%) were randomized to the TASK II intervention (n=123) or to an information, support, and referral group (n=131). Both groups received 8 weekly telephone sessions, with a booster at 12 weeks. General linear models with repeated measures tested efficacy, controlling for patient hospital days and call minutes. Prespecified 8-week primary outcomes were depressive symptoms (with Patient Health Questionnaire Depressive Symptom Scale PHQ-9 ≥5), life changes, and unhealthy days. RESULTS Among caregivers with baseline PHQ-9 ≥5, those randomized to the TASK II intervention had a greater reduction in depressive symptoms from baseline to 8, 24, and 52 weeks and greater improvement in life changes from baseline to 12 weeks compared with the information, support, and referral group (P<0.05); but not found for the total sample. Although not sustained at 12, 24, or 52 weeks, caregivers randomized to the TASK II intervention had a relatively greater reduction in unhealthy days from baseline to 8 weeks (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The TASK II intervention reduced depressive symptoms and improved life changes for caregivers with mild to severe depressive symptoms. The TASK II intervention reduced unhealthy days for the total sample, although not sustained over the long term. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01275495.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamilyn Bakas
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.).
| | - Joan K Austin
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Barbara Habermann
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Nenette M Jessup
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Susan M McLennon
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Pamela H Mitchell
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Gwendolyn Morrison
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Ziyi Yang
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Timothy E Stump
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
| | - Michael T Weaver
- From the Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (T.B., J.K.A., S.M.M.); University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, OH (T.B.); College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark (B.H.); Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis (N.M.J.); School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle (P.H.M.); Indianapolis Economics Department, Indiana University Purdue University (G.M.); Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN (Z.Y., T.E.S.); and College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville (M.T.W.)
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22
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Haley WE, Roth DL, Hovater M, Clay OJ. Long-term impact of stroke on family caregiver well-being: a population-based case-control study. Neurology 2015; 84:1323-9. [PMID: 25740862 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000001418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Three-year changes in well-being were studied among family caregivers of an epidemiologically derived sample of stroke survivors from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study and compared to matched noncaregivers. METHODS Family caregivers of REGARDS participants who experienced a stroke event completed telephone interviews assessing depressive symptoms, mental and physical health quality of life (QOL), life satisfaction, and leisure satisfaction at approximately 9, 18, 27, and 36 months after the stroke (n = 235). For each stroke caregiver, a family member of a stroke-free REGARDS participant was enrolled as a matched noncaregiving control (n = 235) and completed similar interviews. RESULTS Multilevel longitudinal models found that caregivers showed poorer well-being at 9 months poststroke than controls on all measures except physical health QOL. Significant differences were sustained for 22 months after the stroke event for depressive symptoms, 31 months for mental health QOL, and 15 months for life satisfaction. For leisure satisfaction, differences were still significant at 36 months poststroke. Caregiving effects were similar across race and sex. CONCLUSIONS Stroke caregiving is associated with persistent psychological distress, but life satisfaction, depression, and mental health QOL became comparable to noncaregivers by 3 years after stroke. Caregiver leisure satisfaction was chronically lower than in noncaregivers. Intervention for stroke caregivers should recognize both the strains faced by caregivers and their capacity for successful coping over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Haley
- From the School of Aging Studies (W.E.H.), University of South Florida, Tampa; the Center on Aging and Health (D.L.R.), Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; and the Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (M.H.), and the Department of Psychology (O.J.C.), University of Alabama at Birmingham.
| | - David L Roth
- From the School of Aging Studies (W.E.H.), University of South Florida, Tampa; the Center on Aging and Health (D.L.R.), Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; and the Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (M.H.), and the Department of Psychology (O.J.C.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Martha Hovater
- From the School of Aging Studies (W.E.H.), University of South Florida, Tampa; the Center on Aging and Health (D.L.R.), Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; and the Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (M.H.), and the Department of Psychology (O.J.C.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Olivio J Clay
- From the School of Aging Studies (W.E.H.), University of South Florida, Tampa; the Center on Aging and Health (D.L.R.), Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; and the Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (M.H.), and the Department of Psychology (O.J.C.), University of Alabama at Birmingham
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23
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Ejem DB, Drentea P, Clay OJ. The effects of caregiver emotional stress on the depressive symptomatology of the care recipient. Aging Ment Health 2015; 19:55-62. [PMID: 24866207 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2014.915919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Depression is a leading mental health issue affecting elderly individuals worldwide. Previous research widely neglects caregiver emotional stress as a probable contributing factor of depression in the elderly. This study investigated caregiver emotional stress as a chronic life stressor of an elderly care recipient using the life stress paradigm as the theoretical foundation. METHODS The relationships between caregiver emotional stress and care receiver depressive symptoms, as well as other social and psychological mediation factors, were investigated using the 2004 wave of the National Long-Term Care Study (NLTCS). The NLTCS is a nationally representative longitudinal study used to identify frail and disabled elderly Medicare recipients living in the United States. The analytic sample of this study included 1340 caregiver-care receiver dyads who were asked a series of questions concerning their mental health (i.e. emotional stress and depressive symptoms), as well as the availability of social and psychological resources. RESULTS Overall, the results showed that high levels of emotional stress reported by the caregiver were associated with a higher likelihood of the disabled care receiver reporting depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION The findings of this investigation point to the importance of studying caregivers and care receivers as dyads as the stress associated with the caregiving role affects each member.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah B Ejem
- a Department of Sociology , University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , AL , USA
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24
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Byun E, Evans LK. Concept Analysis of Burden in Caregivers of Stroke Survivors During the Early Poststroke Period. Clin Nurs Res 2014; 24:468-86. [DOI: 10.1177/1054773814537060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
It is important to understand burden in caregivers of stroke survivors during the early poststroke period if we are to prevent or decrease the longer-term experience of caregiver burden and its consequences. This article reports a concept analysis of burden in caregivers of stroke survivors during the early poststroke period. A literature review using MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and ISI Web of Knowledge databases (1960-2014) identified 32 relevant articles published from 1993 to 2013. Rodgers’s evolutionary method of concept analysis was used. Three attributes—objective and subjective aspects, time spent caring for the stroke survivor, and uncertainty about the future for the stroke survivor and caregiver—were identified. Multiple definitions of caregiver burden have been used. In the early poststroke period, burden appears closely interconnected with other factors, some of which may be modifiable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eeeseung Byun
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lois K. Evans
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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25
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Kniepmann K. Family Caregiving for Husbands with Stroke: An Occupational Perspective on Leisure in the Stress Process. OTJR-OCCUPATION PARTICIPATION AND HEALTH 2014; 34:131-40. [DOI: 10.3928/15394492-20140325-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study adapted the Stress Process Model with occupational assessments to identify stress, leisure changes, burden levels, and health-related quality of life in 20 caregivers of working-age husbands with mild to moderate stroke in the past 2 years. Primary stress was based on participants' perceptions of their husbands' functional behavior skills. Secondary strain was indicated by reduction of leisure activities that the caregivers wished to still do or do more—a phenomena labeled Leisure Loss. Outcomes were burden and health-related quality of life. Wives whose husbands had more functional behavior difficulties experienced significantly more Leisure Loss. Wives with Leisure Loss had significantly higher burden scores than those who continued their leisure participation, but health-related quality of life scores were not different. These findings suggest that leisure participation is important as health promotion for family caregivers, with potential to enhance health of the relative with stroke and the entire family.
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26
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Task difficulty and life changes among stroke family caregivers: relationship to depressive symptoms. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2014; 95:2484-90. [PMID: 24858447 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2014.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate differences in stroke caregiver task difficulty and life changes based on level of caregiver depressive symptoms, and to estimate probabilities among task difficulty and life change items. DESIGN Descriptive analysis of baseline data from an ongoing stroke caregiver intervention trial. SETTING Hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. PARTICIPANTS Caregivers (N=242; 78.6% women; 47.7% spouses; 71.8% white; mean age, 54.2±12.1y) caring for stroke survivors within 8 weeks of discharge to home. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Baseline measures for task difficulty (Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale) and life changes (Bakas Caregiving Outcomes Scale) were compared based on level of depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9] scores <5 means no depressive symptoms; n=126; PHQ-9 scores ≥5 means mild to severe depressive symptoms, n=116). Mean scores were analyzed using general linear modeling, with item analyses using logistic regression and the Benjamini-Hochberg method to control type I error inflation. RESULTS Caregivers with mild to severe depressive symptoms have greater difficulty with tasks and worse life changes than those with no depressive symptoms (P<.001). Odds ratios were highest for the task of arranging care while away and for negative life changes (eg, addressing self-esteem, coping with stress, physical health). CONCLUSIONS Findings underscore the importance of depressive symptom screening for stroke caregivers during or shortly after discharge. Assisting caregivers with depressive symptoms to arrange for respite care and addressing negative physical and psychological changes may be priority areas for future interventions.
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27
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Forster A, Dickerson J, Young J, Patel A, Kalra L, Nixon J, Smithard D, Knapp M, Holloway I, Anwar S, Farrin A. A structured training programme for caregivers of inpatients after stroke (TRACS): a cluster randomised controlled trial and cost-effectiveness analysis. Lancet 2013; 382:2069-76. [PMID: 24054816 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(13)61603-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients who have had a stroke are dependent on informal caregivers for activities of daily living. The TRACS trial investigated a training programme for caregivers (the London Stroke Carers Training Course, LSCTC) on physical and psychological outcomes, including cost-effectiveness, for patients and caregivers after a disabling stroke. METHODS We undertook a pragmatic, multicentre, cluster randomised controlled trial with a parallel cost-effectiveness analysis. Stroke units were eligible if four of five criteria used to define a stroke unit were met, a substantial number of patients on the unit had a diagnosis of stroke, staff were able to deliver the LSCTC, and most patients were discharged to a permanent place of residence. Stroke units were randomly assigned to either LSCTC or usual care (control group), stratified by geographical region and quality of care, and using blocks of size 2. Patients with a diagnosis of stroke, likely to return home with residual disability and with a caregiver providing support were eligible. The primary outcome for patients was self-reported extended activities of daily living at 6 months, measured with the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (NEADL) scale. The primary outcome for caregivers was self-reported burden at 6 months, measured with the caregivers burden scale (CBS). We combined patient and caregiver costs with primary outcomes and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) to assess cost-effectiveness. This trial is registered with controlled-trials.com, number ISRCTN 49208824. FINDINGS We assessed 49 stroke units for eligibility, of which 36 were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. Between Feb 27, 2008, and Feb 9, 2010, 928 patient and caregiver dyads were registered, of which 450 were in the intervention group, and 478 in the control group. Patients' self-reported extended activities of daily living did not differ between groups at 6 months (adjusted mean NEADL score 27·4 in the intervention group versus 27·6 in the control group, difference -0·2 points [95% CI -3·0 to 2·5], p value=0·866, ICC=0·027). The caregiver burden scale did not differ between groups either (adjusted mean CBS 45·5 in the intervention group versus 45·0 in the control group, difference 0·5 points [95% CI -1·7 to 2·7], p value=0·660, ICC=0·013). Patient and caregiver costs were similar in both groups (length of the initial stroke admission and associated costs were £13,127 for the intervention group and £12,471 for the control group; adjusted mean difference £1243 [95% CI -1533 to 4019]; p value=0·380). Probabilities of cost-effectiveness based on QALYs were low. INTERPRETATION In a large scale, robust evaluation, results from this study have shown no differences between the LSCTC and usual care on any of the assessed outcomes. The immediate period after stroke might not be the ideal time to deliver structured caregiver training. FUNDING Medical Research Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Forster
- Academic Unit of Elderly Care and Rehabilitation, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Leeds, Bradford, UK.
| | - Josie Dickerson
- Academic Unit of Elderly Care and Rehabilitation, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Leeds, Bradford, UK
| | - John Young
- Academic Unit of Elderly Care and Rehabilitation, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Leeds, Bradford, UK
| | - Anita Patel
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lalit Kalra
- Department of Stroke Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Nixon
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - David Smithard
- Department of Stroke Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; Personal Social Services Research Unit, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Ivana Holloway
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Shamaila Anwar
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Amanda Farrin
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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