Effectiveness of a positive psychology program for caregivers of stroke survivors: A pilot study

Efectividad de un programa de psicología positiva en cuidadores familiares de sobrevivientes de accidente cerebrovascular: Estudio piloto

Abstract

Objective: The physical and emotional burden of long-term caring for a stroke survivor is high. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Fortaleza Program (FP) for stroke caregivers, based on positive psychology. Method: A quasi-experimental design with a placebo control group and an intervention group was implemented. Pre- and post-treatment measures were administered to both groups. Eighty-one family members currently caring for stroke survivor participated and completed five questionnaires (SF-36, CD-RISC10, SWLS, Zarit and HADS). Data analyses included independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U, paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank. Results: The FP was effective as it significantly improved resilience, life satisfaction, depression, anxiety and distress burden scores and mental health dimensions such as health-related quality of life. Conclusions: The telepsychology version of the FP activates a positive emotional focus that improves their mental health, making it a useful tool for healt h prevention and promotion in rehabilitation contexts.