Exploratory pilot study of a virtual support group for stroke caregivers.

INTRODUCTION

Despite advances in acute stroke care, long-term disability remains prevalent, placing substantial demands on informal caregivers. As structured rehabilitation in the chronic phase of stroke wanes, caregivers face evolving emotional, social, and logistical challenges with limited support, yet accessible and sustainable models of care remain limited.

METHODS

This implementation-informed exploratory pilot study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of a virtual stroke caregiver support group.

RESULTS

Five participants attended weekly virtual sessions over six weeks facilitated by healthcare professionals. The virtual format addressed accessibility barriers frequently experienced by caregivers including travel time and distance, money, and caregiving responsibilities. Participants had moderate levels of loneliness and some engagement in self-care activities. Participants reported high satisfaction with and perceived benefits of the intervention, noting improved coping, increased confidence in the caregiving role, and validation for their lived experience as a caregiver.

DISCUSSION: The results underscore the need for inclusive, scalable caregiver interventions and greater healthcare provider engagement in caregiver support. Furthermore, the findings of this study support the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual caregiver support group in community-based settings and its potential to promote caregiver well-being.