Presentation
The Use of Patient-Centered Relationship Enrichment Training to Improve Quality of Life for Caregivers and Stroke Survivors
Department of Health Sciences Faculty Proceedings, Presentations, Posters, Speeches, Lectures, etc.
Location
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Publication Date / Copyright Date
10-1-2013
Abstract
Design and Methodology: A patient-centered program was developed to enable caregivers and survivors of stroke to work through lifestyle transformation and challenges associated with often life-altering impact of a CVA. A pilot study, using a qualitative design, investigated outcomes of this educational program. A sample of convenience included participants recruited through support groups, healthcare providers and word of mouth. Four dyads were recruited to participate in six 2-hour/month group sessions providing discussion, coping/stress management strategies, and communication skills. Sessions focused on promoting self-awareness of attitudes/emotions, re-building relationships and improving quality of life. Caregivers maintained a diary and completed weekly enrichment activities to support self-reflection. Caregiver and facilitator training manuals were developed to promote uniformity of program delivery. Inclusion criteria: 1) survivors of CVA at a minimum mild cognitive level of 19- 20 (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and 2) caregivers providing primary care to a survivor of CVA living at home. One on one interviews with caregivers explored their perceptions of the program’s impact. Original Data and Results: Qualitative data analysis demonstrated 3 themes: 1) Change in perceived sense of self: juggling multiple roles 2) Impact of disability- systemic family disharmony 3) Reframing challenges: On the path towards balance and positive family dynamics. Caregivers expressed belief that change would occur through incremental gains, and that strategies learned could foster improved family relationships/quality of life. Conclusion: This program shows potential to reframe communication barriers, improve quality of life for caregivers and survivors of CVA and ultimately, promote efficient/effective use of available healthcare resources. It is recommended a larger study be conducted. Design and Methodology: A patient-centered program was developed to enable caregivers and survivors of stroke to work through lifestyle transformation and challenges associated with often life-altering impact of a CVA. A pilot study, using a qualitative design, investigated outcomes of this educational program. A sample of convenience included participants recruited through support groups, healthcare providers and word of mouth. Four dyads were recruited to participate in six 2-hour/month group sessions providing discussion, coping/stress management strategies, and communication skills. Sessions focused on promoting self-awareness of attitudes/emotions, re-building relationships and improving quality of life. Caregivers maintained a diary and completed weekly enrichment activities to support self-reflection. Caregiver and facilitator training manuals were developed to promote uniformity of program delivery. Inclusion criteria: 1) survivors of CVA at a minimum mild cognitive level of 19- 20 (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and 2) caregivers providing primary care to a survivor of CVA living at home. One on one interviews with caregivers explored their perceptions of the program’s impact. Original Data and Results: Qualitative data analysis demonstrated 3 themes: 1) Change in perceived sense of self: juggling multiple roles 2) Impact of disability- systemic family disharmony 3) Reframing challenges: On the path towards balance and positive family dynamics. Caregivers expressed belief that change would occur through incremental gains, and that strategies learned could foster improved family relationships/quality of life. Conclusion: This program shows potential to reframe communication barriers, improve quality of life for caregivers and survivors of CVA and ultimately, promote efficient/effective use of available healthcare resources. It is recommended a larger study be conducted. Design and Methodology: A patient-centered program was developed to enable caregivers and survivors of stroke to work through lifestyle transformation and challenges associated with often life-altering impact of a CVA. A pilot study, using a qualitative design, investigated outcomes of this educational program. A sample of convenience included participants recruited through support groups, healthcare providers and word of mouth. Four dyads were recruited to participate in six 2-hour/month group sessions providing discussion, coping/stress management strategies, and communication skills. Sessions focused on promoting self-awareness of attitudes/emotions, re-building relationships and improving quality of life. Caregivers maintained a diary and completed weekly enrichment activities to support self-reflection. Caregiver and facilitator training manuals were developed to promote uniformity of program delivery. Inclusion criteria: 1) survivors of CVA at a minimum mild cognitive level of 19- 20 (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and 2) caregivers providing primary care to a survivor of CVA living at home. One on one interviews with caregivers explored their perceptions of the program’s impact. Original Data and Results: Qualitative data analysis demonstrated 3 themes: 1) Change in perceived sense of self: juggling multiple roles 2) Impact of disability- systemic family disharmony 3) Reframing challenges: On the path towards balance and positive family dynamics. Caregivers expressed belief that change would occur through incremental gains, and that strategies learned could foster improved family relationships/quality of life. Conclusion: This program shows potential to reframe communication barriers, improve quality of life for caregivers and survivors of CVA and ultimately, promote efficient/effective use of available healthcare resources. It is recommended a larger study be conducted.
Disciplines
Citation Information
Bini Litwin, Shari Rone-Adams, M Gagnon-Blodgett, R Chenail, et al.. "The Use of Patient-Centered Relationship Enrichment Training to Improve Quality of Life for Caregivers and Stroke Survivors" (2013) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/shari-rone-adams/77/