Prevalence and Sociodemographic Profile of Caregiver Strain Among Caregivers of Stroke Survivors in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Stroke often results in long-term functional limitations that require sustained caregiving support. Informal caregivers, therefore, assume a central role in rehabilitation and daily care. Despite their importance, caregiving responsibilities frequently expose caregivers to significant physical, psychological, and social pressures. Evidence from many settings indicates that caregiver strain remains a common experience among those supporting stroke survivors. The present study examined the prevalence of caregiver strain and described the sociodemographic characteristics of caregivers of stroke survivors attending selected health facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was employed involving 241 caregivers recruited through systematic random sampling from several health facilities providing stroke care. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included the Caregiver Strain Index (CSI). Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 20. The mean age of caregivers was 39.5 ± 15.6 years. Female caregivers constituted 55.6% of the sample. Children of stroke survivors formed the largest caregiving group at 42.7%, followed by spouses at 21.6%. The prevalence of caregiver strain was 71.8%, with a mean CSI score of 7.11 ± 2.03. The findings indicate that caregiver strain among stroke caregivers in this setting is widespread. Recognition of caregiver strain within stroke rehabilitation programmes is essential. Clinical services should incorporate routine caregiver assessment and support strategies to sustain caregiving capacity and improve long-term patient outcomes.