Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 18, 2026
Cognitive Function and Upper Limb Rehabilitation Training Post-Stroke Using a Digital Occupational Training System
Published on: December 29, 2023
A problem-solving early intervention for stroke caregivers: one year follow-up
Rosemarie B King1, Robert J Hartke, Timothy Houle
1Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Chicago, IL, USA. rbking@northwestern.edu
Purpose:
The study purposes were to assess the efficacy of a caregiver problem-solving intervention (CPSI) on stroke caregiver physical and psychosocial adaptation compared with a wait-list control (WLC) treatment, and to assess the mediation effects of coping on outcomes.
Methods:
A stress and coping model guided the study design. Outcomes were depression, anxiety, preparedness, life changes, and family functioning. CPSI started during acute rehabilitation and continued 3 months postdischarge. Data were collected at baseline (T1), postintervention (T2), and 6 (T3) and 12 months postdischarge (T4).
Results:
Of 255 caregivers, 75% were depressed at baseline. Repeated measures ANOVA of study completers (n = 121) indicated improved T2 depression, life change, and health (ps < .04) favoring the CPSI group. Improvements faded by 6 months. Although no group differences in outcomes were found in the intention-to-treat analysis, growth curve modeling indicated a difference in depression rate of change, favoring the CPSI (p = .04). Perceived health, threat appraisal and rational problem-solving were significant mediators (ps < .05).
Conclusions:
Findings provide direction for future interventions to promote and sustain healthy caregiver adaptation.
