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13-item burden screen
Caregiver Strain (MCSI)
Screen the strain experienced by family caregivers of chronically ill or dependent relatives.
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Clinical context
The Modified Caregiver Strain Index (MCSI, Thornton & Travis 2003) is a 13-item screen for strain in long-term family caregivers, covering financial, physical, psychological, social and personal domains. Each item scores 0 (no), 1 (sometimes) or 2 (yes) for a total of 0–26.
Use it to detect burnout and institutionalisation risk early: scores of 7 or more suggest elevated strain and 16 or more high burden. Respond with respite, counselling, education and financial or community supports, and re-screen as the care recipient's condition changes.
Over the past month, how often has caregiving caused… (No / Sometimes / Yes)
Sleep is disturbed (e.g. I get up at night or wake early).
It is inconvenient (e.g. I have to change my schedule).
It is physically exhausting.
It confines me to the home (I must stay close by).
It interferes with other family relationships.
It disrupts my personal plans.
It causes emotional upsets (anger, guilt, frustration).
I am afraid of what the future holds.
It interferes with my job or employment.
I don't have enough time for myself.
I am financially strained because of it.
It causes me physical strain.
It causes me emotional strain.
Result
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