The Caregiver Strain Index is a screening instrument which can be used to identify strain of. carers, assess their ability to go on caring and to identify areas where support may be needed. Strain was defined as 'those enduring problems that have the potential for arousing threat'
Caregiver role strain represents the burden of caregiving on the physical and emotional health of the caregiver and its effects on the family and social system of the caregiver and care receiver.
Caregiver strain, also known as caregiver burden or burnout, is the physical, emotional, and mental stress that occurs when a caregiver looks after a patient without attending to their own needs. Eventually, this can result in significant physical and mental health problems.
It is a 13-question tool that measures strain related to care provision. There is at least one item for each of the following major domains: Employment, Financial, Physical, Social, and Time. This instrument can be used to assess individuals of any age who have assumed the role of caregiver for an older adult.
The score is determined by adding up the “Yes” answers. A score of 7 or greater indicates a high level of stress. If score is 7 or greater – discuss, develop and prioritise support strategies with Carer.
Scoring is 2 points for each 'yes', and 1 point for each 'sometimes' response. The higher the score, the higher the level of caregiver strain. VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY: Internal reliability coefficient is slightly higher (=. 90) than the coefficient originally reported for the CSI in 1983 (=.