Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, leaving survivors with long-term physical and cognitive impairments that require continuous care. The role of caregiving frequently falls on family members, which can result in significant emotional, physical, and financial strain. Despite the growing burden of stroke in Saudi Arabia, the psychosocial impact on caregivers remains underexplored.

We conducted an Institutional Review Board–approved, cross-sectional study of caregivers of stroke survivors using standardized, validated questionnaires to assess caregiver burden and depression. Demographic and clinical characteristics of both patients and caregivers were analyzed, and associations between caregiver characteristics, patient factors, and psychological outcomes were examined.

A total of 155 caregivers participated. Stroke survivors were mostly male (63%) with a mean age of 64.2 ± 12.4 years; most had ischemic stroke (87%) and were discharged home (67%). Caregivers were mainly male (59%), mean age 34.7 ± 10.1 years; 88% were children, 68% employed, and 85% held higher education. The mean depression score was 5.0 ± 4.5, with 43% reporting mild to moderate depression. The mean caregiver strain score was 10.0 ± 6.0, and 70% reported high strain. Female gender (p = 0.006), unemployment (p = 0.032), income dissatisfaction (p = 0.024), and chronic disease (p = 0.021) were associated with higher depression. Caregiver strain correlated with income dissatisfaction (p < 0.001), chronic illness (p = 0.001), patient dependency (p = 0.002), and longer hospital stay (p = 0.039).

Caregiver burden and depression are highly prevalent among caregivers of stroke survivors in Saudi Arabia. Female, unemployed, and financially dissatisfied caregivers are at greater risk. Culturally tailored interventions are needed to reduce caregiver distress and enhance post-stroke care.