Abstract
Stroke survivors often need long-term care, with family members serving as primary caregivers. This study examined the interplay between occupational balance, leisure satisfaction, coping, sleep quality, and the mental component of quality of life among caregivers of individuals with stroke. A total of 150 caregivers completed the Occupational Balance Questionnaire, Leisure Satisfaction Scale, Revised-Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire. Stepwise multiple regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors. Leisure satisfaction was the strongest predictor of sleep quality. The mental component of quality of life was predicted by occupational balance, sleep quality, and leisure satisfaction. Occupational balance was predicted by leisure satisfaction, coping, the mental component of quality of life, and sleep quality. Leisure satisfaction emerged as a key factor influencing occupational balance, sleep quality, and mental well-being, highlighting its role in caregiver support.
Plain Language Summary
Why was the study done? Caring for a family member after a stroke can be stressful and demanding. Caregivers often have disrupted sleep, limited leisure time, and reduced quality of life. While previous studies have examined caregiver burden and coping, there is limited understanding of how the interplay between occupational balance (the sense of balance among daily roles and activities), leisure satisfaction, coping, sleep quality, and quality-of-life affects among caregivers of individuals with stroke. Understanding these factors can help guide effective support strategies for caregivers. What did the researchers do? The research team studied 150 family caregivers of people with stroke. Participants completed several questionnaires, including measures of occupational balance, leisure satisfaction, coping, sleep quality, and the mental component of quality of life. Statistical analyses were used to identify the factors that best predicted sleep, occupational balance, and quality of life. What did the researchers find? Leisure satisfaction emerged as the most important factor. Caregivers who were more satisfied with their leisure activities reported better sleep and a stronger sense of occupational balance. In turn, better sleep, greater balance, and higher leisure satisfaction were linked to better mental quality of life. Male caregivers reported higher levels of occupational balance, coping, and quality of life than female caregivers, suggesting women may experience greater caregiving strain. What do the findings mean? This study highlights that leisure satisfaction plays a central role in caregiver health. Encouraging caregivers to participate in meaningful and enjoyable leisure activities may help improve their sleep, restore occupational balance, and enhance quality of life. Health care providers should consider incorporating leisure-based approaches that support daily routines into caregiver support programmes.
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