Study examines causes of depression in stroke caregivers

By Lyn Mettler

Stroke does not just affect the survivor, it affects their entire families. In fact, studies show that more than a third of stroke survivors suffer depression, and at least as many caregivers do as well.

Professors at the Indiana University schools of Nursing and of Medicine, both at IUPUI, completed a study examining exactly what causes this depression in stroke caregivers.

They found that dealing with behaviors that are common among stroke survivors, such as moodiness, irritability, confusion and memory loss, contributed to caregivers’ depression. Providing emotional support and time away from family and friends also contributed.

“Caregivers’ needs are often overlooked, as care is usually focused on the stroke survivor during hospitalization,” said Tamilyn Bakas, assistant professor of nursing and primary investigator. “This study shows the need for more programs and education to support caregivers. Currently, stroke survivors and their families can call the American Stroke Association Warmline at 1-800-553-6321 for tips about coping with life after stroke,” said Bakas.

Stroke survivors and caregivers actually answer the Warmline to offer support to others, and can

give information about where they can find resources in their local community.

To increase support locally for caregivers, Bakas is involved with Operation Stroke, a local initiative of the American Stroke Association, to develop informational materials to distribute to stroke survivors and caregivers upon discharge from the hospital.

Bakas presented the study last month at the American Heart Association International Stroke Conference. The study looked at 32 family caregivers, most providing care one to six months after the stroke.

Bakas is currently involved in a larger study funded by the National Institutes for Health with Dr. Linda Williams from the Roudebush VA Medical Center and IU School of Medicine Department of Neurology. Researchers studying Indianapolis stroke survivors will test a treatment for

depression, while examining the effects of depression on their caregivers.