Article

OBJECTIVE: To identify caregiver-, stroke survivor-, and caregiving
situation-related factors that are associated with caregivers' restriction from
participation in their normative activities (ie, participation restriction) over
the first 2 years poststroke. DESIGN: Longitudinal cohort study. SETTING: Acute
care facilities and community. PARTICIPANTS: A secondary data analysis of
caregiver/survivor dyads (N=399). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME
MEASURES: Data were collected at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months poststroke.
The primary outcome was caregivers' participation restriction and was assessed using
the Caregiver Impact Scale. Caregivers also provided demographic information and
completed standardized measures to capture assistance provided, mastery, and
depression. From stroke survivors we collected demographic characteristics,
stroke severity, and cognitive and physical functioning. Data were analyzed using
individual growth curve modeling. RESULTS: Participation restriction level
improved over time. Caregiver factors associated with restricted participation
included younger age, being employed, higher depression, and lower mastery level.
Stroke survivor factors associated with caregivers' restricted participation
included hemorrhagic stroke, more severe stroke, more physical and memory
impairments, and lower participation. Significant factors related to the
caregiving situation included providing high levels of assistance and caring for
a spouse. CONCLUSIONS: Depressed younger caregivers, with low levels of mastery,
who provide high-intensity support to spouses with cognitive difficulties may be
at risk. Screening for these factors may help identify stroke families at risk
for poor outcomes and may be used to more efficiently allocate health resources.
CI - Copyright (c) 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS