Demographic disparities in health-related social needs among caregivers of stroke survivors: an exploratory cross-sectional study.

Abstract

To investigate the prevalence and demographic disparities of health-related social needs (HRSNs) across 12 domains among caregivers of stroke survivors, with attention to race/ethnicity and care partnership context. Cross-sectional survey examining disparities and correlates of total HRSN burden. Sample consisted of eighty-one US caregivers (69% female; 56% Black or African American between November 2024 and June 2025. Instruments included a demographic questionnaire and CMS Accountable Health Communities HRSN screening tool assessing 12 domains, scored dichotomously, and summed into total HRSNs. Caregivers reported an average of 6.5 unmet social needs (95% CI [5.69, 7.25]). Racial and ethnic minority (REM) caregivers experienced significantly higher total HRSNs than non-REM caregivers (mean 7.81 vs. 3.56; mean difference 4.25, 95% CI [3.05, 5.46]). Regression analysis showed that stroke survivor race, caregiver age (<41), and marital status accounted for 61% of variance in total HRSNs. Caregivers of stroke survivors face extensive and inequitable social needs, particularly among those caring for REM stroke survivors, younger caregivers, and married partners. Addressing these disparities requires integrating caregiver-focused, equity-oriented social needs screening into stroke care models.