Article

PURPOSE: To explore the experience and management of eating situations among
persons affected by stroke, 6 months after stroke onset. METHOD: A qualitative
constant comparative approach, influenced by principles of grounded theory, was
used to analyse the interviews. Thirteen participants were interviewed in the
home setting 6 months after the stroke. RESULTS: Experiences and desire to master
eating situations varied, and was related to values and previous habits. Eating
difficulties were experienced as disgusting, uncomfortable, strenuous, or
unproblematic and not implying shame. Getting help from others could be
experienced as embarrassing and undesirable. In particular, eating could be more
difficult when eating in company of unfamiliar people. The participants found new
ways of mastering eating situations. Some had regained former routines.
CONCLUSIONS: Old values and habits and/or involvement of other people were the
basis of mastering eating situations. New ways of mastering were found, some
accepted, and got used to the new situation. Some regained former routines. This
knowledge could contribute to health care personnel's awareness of each patient's
individual values and previous habits during the rehabilitation process. A
dialogue is needed with the person suffering from eating difficulties after
stroke, to help create the best possible individual conditions for mastering
eating situations.

Langue : ANGLAIS