Caregiver Support Improves Function After Stroke

Canadian researchers found involvement of caregivers is a determinant of improved upper-limb function over and above initial severity of motor impairment and exercise intensity for individuals with subacute stroke.

Data from 50 individuals with subacute stroke who were randomly assigned to the experimental group (upper-limb exercise) was used for the analysis. Outcome variables were measured at baseline and at completion of the four-week intervention. Using the Fugl-Meyer Upper-Limb Motor Impairment Scale and time spent in treatment (intensity) as covariates, a multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the additive value of caregiver support on upper-limb function, as measured by change scores on the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory and the Motor Activity Log.

Group comparisons revealed that participants with caregiver support had improved upper-limb function compared with those without caregiver support and were more likely to increase the amount of time spent doing exercise. The multiple regression analysis showed that Fugl-Meyer score, treatment intensity and caregiver support were significant predictors of upper-limb improvement (R2=.240?.292). In the regression models, caregiver support accounted for 5% to 9% of upper-limb improvement.

The study was published in the journal Physical Therapy.