Grant: Summer Program in Aging

Stroke is one of the main causes of disability in adults in Canada, particularly among older adults. More than 7.8 million Canadians provide unpaid care, often to older adults recovering from strokes. However, caregiving can be very challenging: 94% of caregivers say they need more support, and 31% feel unprepared to care for a loved one affected by stroke. Women, who make up 54% of all caregivers, often provide more care than men and experience worse physical and mental health outcomes. Feeling "prepared" is important for caregivers' well-being, but we don't fully understand what it means to feel prepared or how to provide the right support, especially considering differences between men and women. My dissertation research seeks to bridge this gap by developing a program to better support caregivers of older adults affected by stroke, with caregiver and older adult partners overseeing every stage of the process. First, I will analyze research and caregiver stories to define what it means to feel prepared to provide care. Next, I will review existing programs to identify effective strategies, such as education or peer support, and co-design a new program with caregiver and older adult partners. Finally, I will gather feedback from caregivers and healthcare professionals through surveys and discussions to ensure the program meets caregivers' needs and can be delivered in healthcare settings while exploring differences in how men and women experience preparedness. This research aims to provide practical solutions to help caregivers feel more confident and supported, ultimately benefiting both caregivers and the older adults they care for.