Accession Number:

ADA621428

Title:

Family Caregivers for Veterans with Spinal Cord Injury: Exploring the Stresses and Benefits

Descriptive Note:

Annual rept. 30 Sep 2013-29 Sep 2014

Corporate Author:

CRAIG HOSPITAL ENGLEWOOD CO

Personal Author(s):

• Charlifue, Susan
• Coker, Jennifer

Report Date:

2014-10-01

Pagination or Media Count:

9.0

Abstract:

When family caregivers are unable to cope effectively with all role responsibilities, the health and well-being of the care recipient also may be jeopardized. Unfortunately, there are few studies that examine the intricacies of caregiving for people with spinal cord injuries. The purpose of this study is to identify issues specific to family caregivers of veterans with spinal cord injuries and develop a relevant, culturally appropriate instrument to assess caregiver distress andor benefit. Family caregivers of veterans from three geographically diverse sites Richmond, Virginia, Seattle, Washington, and Denver, Colorado are being recruited to participate in focus groups discussing caregiving issues. To date, five focus groups with a total of 34 participants were completed in Richmond and two groups in Denver with a total of 8 participants. IRB approval in Seattle is still pending but in progress. It is anticipated that IRB approval will be finalized in Seattle within the month of October 2013 and focus groups will be convened before 2014 if possible.

Descriptors:

• *SPINAL CORD
• *STRESS(PHYSIOLOGY)
• *STRESS(PSYCHOLOGY)
• *WOUNDS AND INJURIES
• FAMILY MEMBERS
• HEALTH
• VETERANS(MILITARY PERSONNEL)

Subject Categories:

• Psychology
• Medicine and Medical Research
• Stress Physiology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE