Caregiver Burden, Fatigue, Sleep Quality, and Depression in Family Caregivers of Stroke Patients With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study
Caregiver Burden, Fatigue, Sleep Quality, and Depression in Family Caregivers of Stroke Patients With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study
This cross-sectional observational study aims to evaluate caregiver burden, fatigue, sleep quality, and depression among family caregivers of stroke patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Stroke survivors frequently experience urinary dysfunction, which may increase caregiving demands and negatively affect caregiver well-being. A total of 70 family caregivers of stroke patients with LUTS receiving inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation care were included. Caregiver outcomes were assessed using validated instruments including the Caregiver Strain Index (CSI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The study also examined the relationship between caregiver outcomes and patient-related clinical variables such as stroke severity and cognitive status.
Inclusion Criteria:
Adult family caregivers (≥18 years old) providing care for patients with stroke who have lower urinary tract symptoms.
Caregivers who have been providing care for at least 3 months.
Caregivers who are able to read and understand the questionnaires.
Caregivers who voluntarily agree to participate in the study.
Exclusion Criteria:
Caregivers with a previously diagnosed severe psychiatric disorder.
Caregivers with cognitive impairment preventing completion of questionnaires.
Caregivers who declined participation or provided incomplete questionnaire data.