Effectiveness of an Integrated Community-Based Livelihood and Rehabilitation Intervention on the Social Capital of Caregivers of Children with Cerebral Palsy: Secondary Analysis of an Existing Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial in Rural Bangladesh
Abstract
Highlights What are the main findings? Integrated microfinance and community-based rehabilitation (IMCBR) significantly improved caregivers’ overall and structural social capital compared with community-based rehabilitation or standard care. Caregivers of children with more severe motor impairments showed smaller gains in social capital. What are the implications of the main findings? IMCBR can strengthen caregivers’ social networks, participation, and community engagement in low-resource settings. Programs should include targeted support for the caregivers of children with severe CP to ensure equitable benefits and reduce social disadvantages. Abstract Background/Objectives: Social capital is a multifaceted concept that comprises structural and cognitive portions, and from the perspective of caregivers, it enables access to assistance and participation, improving well-being in resource-constrained settings. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Bangladesh, mothers are often the sole carers of children with cerebral palsy (CP), which may affect their social capital and livelihood; however, evidence in this regard is limited. This study assessed the effectiveness of integrated microfinance and community-based rehabilitation (IMCBR) on caregivers’ social capital in rural Bangladesh. Methods: This study was part of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Shahjadpur, Sirajganj, with three study arms. Children aged ≤5 years with CP and their primary caregivers…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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