Comprehensive portrait of the needs of caregivers of individuals living with a traumatic brain injury: a systematic mixed-methods review.

BACKGROUND

Caring for an individual living with traumatic brain injury may place physical and emotional demands on caregivers, yet evidence on their specific needs remains fragmented. Synthesising this evidence is therefore essential to address this gap and to inform the development of targeted support strategies. The aim of this study was to appraise and synthesise the evidence the needs of caregivers of individuals living with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury.

METHODS

A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted in 2024 across MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science (PROSPERO #CRD42023432812) to locate primary studies published in English or French after 2000. Two reviewers conducted the screening. Quality appraisal was completed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The Joanna Briggs Institute approach informed data extraction and synthesis.

RESULTS

Thirty-two studies were included, nearly half being qualitative. Most study participants were women. The main needs identified included information, mental health support, hope, financial assistance, education of the social network and peer support.

CONCLUSION

Despite variations in quality assessment, findings guide the development of tailored interventions. Given the broad spectrum of needs identified, further studies are necessary to clarify and prioritise those needs to ensure support services are aligned with caregivers' priorities.