Pilot evaluation of the family informal caregiver stroke self-management program.

BACKGROUND: Due to the abrupt onset of a stroke, caregivers are often unprepared for the role, have extensive needs and are at risk for negative outcomes. Interventions facilitating development of coping and problem solving skills are shown to decrease the negative effects of caregiving. The Family Informal Caregiver Stroke Self-Management (FICSS) program was developed to address the unmet needs of family caregivers of stroke survivors.