Role reconstruction of family caregivers with first-time stroke survivors: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the characteristics of the role reconstruction of family caregivers with first-time stroke survivors after discharge from hospital. Methods: Data were collected in using semi-structured qualitative interviews with 30 dyads of first-time stroke survivors and their family caregivers after discharge from the hospital within a year. Transcriptions were conducted, followed by thematic analyses by two researches independently. Findings: Four main themes of role reconstruction were generated from the data: (1) entry to new role - the role of learning; (2) emergence of multiple roles; (3) role overburdened – imbalance status between the role of caregiver and care recipient; (4) role expectation – shared roles and duties. Implications: The findings of the present study include an emphasis on recording the lived experience of role reconstruction among family caregivers. It generates implications on how to better deliver clinical psychosocial interventions for the family caregivers to cope with the challenges of role changes.