Research Articles (Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies)

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Browsing Research Articles (Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies) by browse.metadata.advisor "Visagie, Surona"

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    The lived experiences of caregivers of stroke survivors in a rural Western Cape Setting
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-03) Fisher, Mylcka Jade; Visagie, Surona; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Centre for Rehabilitation Studies.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: Introduction: Caregivers play a pivotal role in the community re-integration of stroke survivors. However, they face challenges that they are not always prepared for. This might leave them feeling anxious and uncertain about fulfilling the caregiving role. Caregivers’ emotional, physical, and mental well-being might be affected by the caregiving duties. Few studies have explored caregiver lived experiences specifically and none could be identified that was done in a rural South African setting. Purpose: The aim of the study was to explore the lived experiences of caregivers of stroke survivors discharged from Ceres Hospital, in the Witzenberg sub-district. Methods: A qualitative descriptive phenomenological design underpinned by constructivism was adopted. A pilot study was conducted to practice my interview skills, test the appropriateness of the data collection tool as well as the logistics of the interview. Data was collected by means of face to face, individual interviews with a sample of 5 participants. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis guidelines were used. Main findings: Four themes were identified; 1) “It is my duty”. Participants felt obligated to care because of the relationship they had with the stroke survivor. 2) “I don’t make things difficult for him”. Participants neglected their own needs and interests and prioritized their caregiving duties and the needs of the stroke survivor. 3) “God gave me the strength”. Participants found their faith to be a foundation from which they drew strength and 4) “They showed me nothing”. Participants reported anxiety in the initial stages of caring and did not utilize or acknowledge the information provided by healthcare workers. Conclusions: Caregivers find it difficult to adapt to caring for a loved one and are not always equipped with coping strategies. Relationship-specific changes should be considered during stroke rehabilitation and the necessary support should be provided by healthcare workers. Conclusions: Caregivers find it difficult to adapt to caring for a loved one and are not always equipped with coping strategies. Relationship-specific changes should be considered during stroke rehabilitation and the necessary support should be provided by healthcare workers.