Changes in family functioning for stroke rehabilitation patients and theirfamilies

This study charted changes over time in the family functioning of a group o f stroke rehabilitation patients and their families. Participants were 60 1 2-month stroke survivors who had undergone an inpatient rehabilitation prog ramme, 46 spouses, and 25 other family members. Participants were assessed at the time of admission to and discharge from rehabilitation, and 6 and 12 months after discharge. The study was undertaken in the rehabilitation uni t at Repatriation General Hospital, in Adelaide, South Australia. Family fu nctioning was assessed using the McMaster Family Assessment Device,and func tional outcome was monitored with the competence scale of the Australian AD L Index. Longitudinal change in family functioning was observed in problem solving, family communication, role definition, behaviour control. and affe ctive involvement. There were no significant differences between the family functioning ratings provided by patients and their spouses. It is importan t that consideration be given to means by which the increase in family dysf unction following stroke can be addressed.