A problem-solving early intervention for stroke caregivers: one year follow-up

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke caregivers face significant physical and psychosocial challenges.
• Adaptation to caregiving roles is crucial for caregiver well-being.
• Existing interventions may not provide sustained support for stroke caregivers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a caregiver problem-solving intervention (CPSI) versus a wait-list control (WLC) on stroke caregiver adaptation.
• To examine the mediating role of coping mechanisms in the relationship between the intervention and adaptation outcomes.
• To assess long-term effects of the CPSI on caregiver depression, anxiety, preparedness, life changes, and family functioning.

Main Methods:

• A stress and coping model guided the study design.
• Participants were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 6 and 12 months post-discharge.
• Outcomes included depression, anxiety, preparedness, life changes, and family functioning.

Main Results:

• At baseline, 75% of caregivers reported depression.
• The CPSI group showed initial improvements in depression, life change, and health post-intervention (p < .04).
• Growth curve modeling revealed a significant difference in the rate of depression change favoring the CPSI (p = .04), though improvements faded by 6 months. Perceived health, threat appraisal, and rational problem-solving were significant mediators (p < .05).

Conclusions:

• The caregiver problem-solving intervention demonstrated short-term benefits for stroke caregiver adaptation.
• Coping strategies, including perceived health and problem-solving, play a mediating role in intervention outcomes.
• Findings highlight the need for interventions that promote and sustain healthy caregiver adaptation post-stroke.