Effects of Group Education Program for the Families of Stroke Patients in Psycho-social Aspect

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This paper was designed to develope a group program for the families of stroke patients and examined the effects of the program on mental health, stress coping, and social support of the family caregivers. METHOD: The subjects of this study were 28 family members of stroke patients who had participated in group education program. The program was composed of eight sessions. The aim of this study was to increase understanding of the nature of stroke and treatment procedures, and to enhance family caregivers' ability to take care of patients, and to reduce family caregivers' burden. The program team members included social workers, medical doctors, and nutritionists. The data was analyzed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. RESULTS: There were significant differences in all three areas between pre and post groups (p<0.001). It means the program will help the participants improve mental health state, enhance stress coping skills and improve the perception of social support. CONCLUSION: A formalized group education program is an important resource in helping family members understand the stroke and their ability to cope with the rehabilitation process. Since family members provide a critical role in the long-term rehabilitation, family group education should be an essential part in the rehabilitation program.