The Psychosocial Impact of Post-Stroke Dysphagia on the Familial Dyad
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Date
2022
Authors
Jones, Lija
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Approximately 39 to 81% of stroke survivors experience dysphagia or swallowing difficulties (Khedr et al., 2021). Post-stroke dysphagia can have a lasting effect on the quality of life of both the stroke survivor and their informal caregiver. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the psychosocial impact of post-stroke dysphagia on the family dyad. Individual and dyadic semi-structured interviews were conducted. Throughout the data collection and transcription processes, the research team engaged in memo writing. The memos and transcripts were analyzed as primary sources of data in the qualitative study. Results revealed a perceived loss of autonomy and independence, the presence of family and friend support systems, a lack of support from healthcare professionals, and the toll of post-stroke dysphagia and the stroke recovery process on the dyad’s mental health. These findings suggest the importance of providing individualized medical and psychological support for both members of the dyad, including the uncompensated family caregiver who has now altered their lived experiences to better support the survivor.
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Keywords
Dysphagia, Caregiver Burden, Dyad, Communication Disorders, Swallowing Difficulties