Article

This study was designed to explore the concept of recovery from the
perspectives of stroke survivors and informal carers.
The aim of this qualitative
study was to identify the main factors that are perceived to contribute to
recovery after stroke. METHOD: Data were obtained via focus groups using
semistructured questionnaires. One focus group included all participants (n =
14). This was followed by separate focus groups for stroke survivors (n = 8) and
informal carers (n = 6). The data from the three focus groups were analysed using
thematic analysis, whereby themes and sub-themes were identified and summarised
via dual coding. RESULTS: The main theme identified was "individual recovery
expectations". The contributing sub-themes were: "essential elements of
recovery", "returning home" and "the environment of rehabilitation". The
predominant factors to arise from this study surround the concepts of "returning
to normality" for the stroke survivor and the "tension of providing care" for
informal carers. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a current description of stroke
survivor and carer expectations of recovery. There are diverse and ongoing
concerns that can be encountered into the chronic phase poststroke. Models of
community-based care should adopt targeted interventions that concurrently
consider stroke survivor and carer's individual concepts of recovery.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: * The concept of recovery can differ for stroke
survivors, carers and the health professionals that they encounter. * As it is an
individual phenomenon, many factors comprise the notion of recovery. * Health
professionals need to explore stroke survivor and carer's views about their
concepts of recovery, as greater awareness and attention may maximise individual
poststroke potential.

Langue : ANGLAIS