The Prevalence of Depression among Caregivers of Stroke Survivors and Related Factors in Arak

Despite the extensive interest shown in depression occurring in stroke patients, little attention has been paid focus on depression of caregivers of stroke survivors particularly in Iran therefore this study was designed to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms among caregivers of stroke survivors and to determine putative risk factors. This cross-sectional analytic study was carried out among 140 caregiver''s stroke patients were admitted in Valiasr Hospital affiliated to Arak University of Medical Sciences. The caregivers were interviewed before discharge, at 1 month and 3 months after that. Depression was evaluated with the Beck Depression Inventory. The ability of the person with a stroke to perform their activities of daily living was measured using the Modified Barthel Index (MBI). Most of the caregivers were the spouse of the patient (70.71%; n= 95). The mean age of them was 57.1 (SD=11.2) years old. A total of 33.57% to 42.16% of all caregivers were depressed during the follow-up. During the follow-up, caregivers'' scores for depression statistically significant were increased. Caregiver depression was associated with stroke modified barthel index score and age of the patient. The depressive symptoms of caregivers seem to have high rate. This suggests that assessment of caregivers'' social, and emotional needs should be included as part of the general rehabilitation plan of the stroke patient.