findings indicate that increased burden significantly relates to decreased health-related quality of life among stroke caregivers. In addition, the prevalence of depressive symptoms among caregivers was twice that of community dwelling older people. Roughly 52% of caregivers had Geriatric Depression Scale scores that warranted further evaluation. Despite the prevalence of depressive symptoms only one caregiver had received any psychiatric care during their caregiving tenure.

Due to the substantial prevalence of psychiatric disorders found in false-negative subjects, the above cut-off scores were chosen to optimize the potential for true positives. These scores are recommended for alerting physicians and other caregivers as to when more intensive depression evaluation is needed.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

Despite the fact that 62% of subjects scored > or = 6 on the GDS, none were currently receiving assessment and/or treatment for their depressive symptoms. The frequency distribution and factor structure suggest that poststroke GDS scores reflect endorsement of functional losses such as decreased energy and impaired memory and subsequent feelings of helplessness, boredom and social withdrawal rather than decreased positive affect. Treatment should focus on dealing with these issues.

despite the prevalence of depressive symptoms, none of the subjects were currently receiving any mental health treatment. Findings suggest that symptoms differ by poststroke duration, which may necessitate different treatment approaches.