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 (=.
What Is Caregiver Role Strain? 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.
The Caregiver Reaction Assessment Scale (CRA) is an instrument designed to assess specific aspects of the caregiving situation, including both negative and positive dimensions of caregiving reactions.
The Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) was developed to measure the impact of caregiving on family members of patients, in particular those with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia 56. The scale is developed by considering the burden as the result of multiple aspects of the caregiver's life.
A valuable resource for family members experiencing caregiver strain is support groups. Support groups are designed to provide a platform where caregivers can connect with one another, share their personal experiences, and discuss the challenges they face while caring for their loved ones.
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.
BEST TOOL: The Modified Caregiver Strain Index (MCSI) is an easy-to-use tool that can quickly screen for caregiver strain in long-term caregivers. The tool has 13 questions that measure strain related to care provision.
Gerontologic health scientific literature identifies a number of scales to measure caregiver burden. The Zarit Scale of Caregiver Burden or the Zarit Burden Interview is the most widely used instrument.