Stress and Fatigue in Caregivers of Post-stroke Patients
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15225/PNN.2025.14.3.3Keywords
fatigue, stress, strokeAbstract
Introduction. A stroke patient often requires assistance in performing daily activities and is unable to function independently. Washing, dressing, and eating independently become difficult. The patient’s family must support the patient in this new situation and come to terms with their existing limitations. Caregivers for stroke patients face various challenges that impact their physical and mental health, as well as their social lives.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the occurrence of stress and fatigue in caregivers of stroke patients.
Material and Methods. The study was conducted on a group of 156 individuals caring for stroke patients. The research used a diagnostic survey method using measurement and questionnaire techniques. Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) was used to assess the quality and level of fatigue. The standard Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was used to assess the perceived level of stress, and the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) was used to assess the way of coping with stress. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis, assuming a statistically significant value of p≤0.05.
Results. The analysis of our own research showed that the selected analyzed variables did not have a statistically significant effect (p>0.50) on the level of stress experienced by people caring for patients after cerebral stroke. A statistically significant effect (p≤0.05) of the variables on the selected strategies of coping with stress was observed. Among these strategies were: use of instrumental social support; use of emotional social support; positive reinterpretation and growth; restrain; acceptance; denial; and alcohol or substance use. The level of fatigue was significantly related to: age (p=0.010), education (p=0.032) and socio-economic conditions of the respondents (p=0.020).
Conclusions. Caregivers for stroke survivors experience high levels of stress and physical and mental exhaustion. At the same time, they exhibit low levels of stress management. (JNNN 2025;14(3):118–124)
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