Exploration of the economic and quality of life impact on carers of individuals undergoing community rehabilitation

Background/Aims: For people with neurological conditions, informal carers form an important part of the rehabilitation journey. The aim of the current study was to assess the economic and quality of life outcomes for someone caring for a person undertaking a community rehabilitation programme. Methods: A prospective study was conducted of a community rehabilitation service with baseline and 3-month follow-up data. Participants in this study were carers of people undergoing rehabilitation. Data was collected on time spent caring and on employment status using a questionnaire. Quality of life was measured using the carer experience scale. Results: Carers spend an average of 28 hours per week in caring activities and this was similar after rehabilitation was complete. Replacement by a paid worker would cost over A$650 a week. Quality of life of the carer did not significantly change after rehabilitation was completed. Thirty-seven percent of carers have ceased work because of their caring duties. Conclusions...