The role of family Social support in stroke recovery and desired rehabilitation outcomes in U.S. adults: a scoping review.

Background: Family and social support can have a large impact on the recovery of stroke patients. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore patient-centered strategies that can be implemented to ensure long-term and sustained family support for US adult stroke patients.

Methods: The development of the study sections was guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). The methodology used in the review followed the York framework by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). Additionally, recommendations from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) were incorporated for the extraction, analysis, and presentation of results in scoping reviews.

Results: A total of 6 articles were retained for analysis. Hands-on caregiver training was associated with improved physical function and enhanced quality of life for both caregivers and stroke survivors. Improvements were also seen in caregiver mental health outcomes such as experiencing fewer depressive symptoms. Caregiver burden often stemmed from the intense nature of caregiving responsibilities and the complex needs of stroke survivors. Major themes in lessons learned for future evidence-based caregiver-oriented stroke were also highlighted.

Conclusion: Findings can provide informed patient- and family-centered recommendations for sustaining positive rehabilitation outcomes for adults who have experienced stroke.