Title: Poster 39: Are We Meeting the Changing Needs of Family Caregivers to Stroke Survivors Across the Care Continuum?
Abstract: Objective: To systematically review the caregiver intervention literature to determine what interventions are delivered, by whom and, specifically, when during the stroke survivors' journeys across the care continuum. Data Sources: We performed a systematic search of Medline, PsycInfo, and CINAHL between 1980 and March 1, 2008. Study Selection: We identified studies using the following search terms: stroke and caregiver or carer or family. Studies were included if they: (1) were in English; (2) evaluated an intervention; and (3) examined caregiver outcomes quantitatively and/or qualitatively. Data Extraction: A standardized data extraction form obtained information about intervention content, method of delivery, and when in the care continuum it was offered. We also assessed methodologic rigor using PEDro criteria. Data Synthesis: The literature search identified 1070 studies, with 46 meeting the inclusion criteria. Although the interventions were initiated in different care environments (eg, acute care, rehabilitation, community), there were no discernable patterns in who delivered the interventions, or what the interventions offered. Very few interventions crossed care environments, or specifically addressed caregivers' changing needs. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights the need for interventions to emphasize caregivers' changing needs for support across the care continuum.