Post-stroke Dysphagia’s Impact on Survivors and Spousal Caregivers: The Importance of Perceptual Congruence

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Date

2020-06

Authors

Davis, Kayla R.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

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Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

Previous studies have shown a link between survivors’ stroke severity and family caregiver burden, however other factors may contribute to this burden. Burden specific to post-stroke dysphagia and the consequences of incongruence between care recipient and care partner in their perception of the impacts of the care recipient’s dysphagia are potential variables that are unexplored. The present study aimed to determine the role of partner congruence in the perceived mealtime impacts of poststroke dysphagia on caregiver burden. Twenty-seven spousal dyads consisting of a stroke survivor experiencing post-stroke dysphagia and their spousal caregiver were surveyed concerning their perceptions of the logistical and social impacts of dysphagia on mealtimes and stroke and dysphagia severity. Dyadic congruence in perceptions of mealtime logistical impacts, but not mealtime social impacts, was associated with increased caregiver burden. Additionally, increased survivor dysphagia severity and caregivers’ perceived mealtime logistical impacts were also associated with increased caregiver burden. These results can guide speech-language pathologists and other health professionals in their interventions for clients with dysphagia and their families.

Description

Submitted to the Undergraduate Library Research Award scholarship competition: 2020. 66 pages

Keywords

stroke survivor, caregiver, post-stroke dysphagia

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