The Modified Caregiver Strain Index in Black and White Dementia Caregivers at Hospital Discharge

Objectives: This study aimed to examine psychometric properties of the Modified Caregiver Strain Index (MCSI) in Black and White caregivers of persons living with dementia at hospital discharge. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using baseline data of 423 family caregivers recruited from a cluster randomized clinical control trial. Factor structure, measurement invariance, and concurrent validity of the MCSI were analyzed. The moderating role of race on the relationship between MCSI score and anxiety, depression, and burden was also examined. Results: The two-factor model fits the data best and was invariant across race. Regarding concurrent validity, higher MCSI scores were significantly associated with higher scores on the (HADS-A; anxiety), (HADS-D; depression), and (ZBI; burden). Race moderated the relationship between MCSI score and anxiety, depression, and burden. Conclusions: The MCSI is a valid tool to assess caregiver strain in Black and White caregivers of persons living with dementia during hospital discharge. Results suggest that the effect of MCSI score on anxiety, depression, and burden varies by race. Clinical Implications: MCSI can be used by clinicians and service providers to help support the needs of Black and White caregivers of people living with dementia during post-hospital transition.