This study focuses on the theoretical relationship between levels of caregiver strain and the posthospital functioning of the elderly. One hypothesis tested was that elderly patients whose caregivers report higher levels of caregiver strain, as measured by the Caregiver Strain Index, will be readmitted more frequently than elderly patients whose caregivers report less strain. Dependent measures were submitted to Analysis of Variance, Chi-square, and stepwise linear regression analysis as appropriate. Readmission was related to high scores on the Caregiver Strain Index only when the caregiver was a spouse or child. No significant relationship was found between caregiver strain levels and length of time to readmission in the group of elderly patients who were readmitted. The presence of formal support services did not affect readmission
