Strain experienced by caregivers of stroke survivors in the Western Cape

Functioning at 6 months post stroke following discharge from inpatient rehabilitation

“…8 Stroke survivors in developed countries received more therapies, nursing services, contact with doctors and psychologists after discharge, and severe stroke patients were more likely to be institutionalised at 6 months after stroke. 20 Because SA has few suitable residential facilities, patients with severe disabilities are discharged into the care of families, often without support and follow-up.…”

“…20 Because SA has few suitable residential facilities, patients with severe disabilities are discharged into the care of families, often without support and follow-up. 8 Lack of community support services and financial pressures contribute to higher caregiver strain and to a double loss of income as family members must give up work to care for the stroke survivor. 8 Levels of community participation reflect environmental factors and the level of impairment of the stroke patient.…”

“…8 Lack of community support services and financial pressures contribute to higher caregiver strain and to a double loss of income as family members must give up work to care for the stroke survivor. 8 Levels of community participation reflect environmental factors and the level of impairment of the stroke patient. Given their low incomes, lack of financial resources is an additional barrier to functioning.…”

“…Stroke survivors experience difficulties in using public transport in SA. 7,8 Independent functional walking within the community is another common difficulty, owing to residual impairments. Although 80% of all participants could walk independently indoors (mobility item in the BI), this does not imply ability to achieve safe walking in the community.…”

“…There are few data on the outcomes of patients who are able to access intensive inpatient rehabilitation in SA. 8 We aimed to determine the activity limitations and participation restrictions, health-related quality of life and caregiver strain in survivors discharged from an inpatient rehabilitation facility at 6 months post stroke.…”