Addressing stroke family caregivers' mental health through person‑ and family‑centred rehabilitation.

Abstract

We aim to summarize the literature on family caregiver experiences and support needs following stroke and highlight person- and family-centred care (PFCC) as a potential approach to addressing gaps in caregiver support and mental health. Literature was reviewed to examine caregiver mental health outcomes, caregiver-focused interventions, challenges integrating caregiver support into patient-centred models of care, and the potential role of PFCC. Caregivers are at increased risk of adverse mental health outcomes, including stress, burden, and psychological distress. Although interventions have been developed to improve caregiver health and well‑being, effectiveness has been mixed, with persistent challenges integrating caregiver‑focused programs into patient‑centred models of care. PFCC offers a promising approach by recognizing and engaging family caregivers as partners in care planning and implementation, with potential to enhance caregiver support and mental health and wellbeing.