Article

The aim was to investigate close relatives' experiences of the influences of
aphasia on their own life situation, as well as their perceptions of everyday
activity for the person with aphasia and support for the family in daily life.
Fourteen close relatives of people with aphasia were interviewed on one occasion
each. The interview text was analysed using qualitative content analysis, and
sorted into three themes: "The influence of aphasia in the family", "Everyday
life", and "The meaning of support". The aspect most apparent from the interviews
was the great changes in the interviewees' lives after their relatives had been
stricken with aphasia, particularly the loss of friends. There were also
communication problems in the beginning. While many said that their aphasic
relative always used to be active, only a few described the resumption of
previous activities. Having an aphasic family member in need of support created a
sense of emotional loneliness, and of being the one who does the majority of the
practical chores. The results accentuate the importance of close relatives, and
their essential function for support and motivation. The close relatives must be
given support from rehabilitation and community staff, to make it easier for them
to communicate with and cope with the aphasic person in everyday activities.

Langue : ANGLAIS