Assessing the needs of Stroke family caregivers: Adapting the Carers Alert Thermometer (CAT) to develop the CAT(S).

Assessing the needs of stroke family caregivers: Adapting the Carers Alert Thermometer (CAT) to develop the CAT(S). Background An estimated 1.2 million stroke survivors are currently living in the United Kingdom and majority of them rely on family caregivers to provide support. However, the support given to stroke family caregivers is not standard across most UK stroke services. Early identification of stroke family caregivers needs and support is crucial in order to sustain their caring role. Aim The aim of phase one of this research study was to explore what stroke family caregivers find burdensome during caring post stroke and also to seek their views about the Carers’ Alert Thermometer; an alert tool that was developed by researchers at Edge Hill University. Method 16 audio tape-recorded, semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of stroke family caregivers were conducted in the North West of England. Data from the interviews were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Challenges reported by stroke family caregivers included: dealing with their own emotions, the emotions and behaviours of the stroke survivors, information needs, providing physical care and the need for respite. All respondents who took part reported that the CAT would be a useful tool to identify and support the needs of stroke family carers. Conclusion These results support previous research findings and highlight that carers needs should be assessed regularly. Findings from this phase will inform the next phase of the study which is a Delphi survey to prioritise key themes for inclusion in the CAT(S).