Article

The purpose of this article is to identify, from a long-term
perspective, stroke survivors' self-identity, their views of any associated
disabilities and how they manage their lives after stroke. METHODS: The
interviews and analyses were conducted using a phenomenological qualitative
method. A total of 10 men and 5 women, aged 42-84, participated. All had suffered
first-time stroke 5 years earlier. RESULTS: After 5 years, participants had
greater acceptance of their situation compared with immediately after
participating in the rehabilitation programme. However, they described how they
still had to deal with the consequences of stroke. They had suffered further
illnesses and additions to side effects of the stroke. In dealing with their
disabilities and changes to self-identity and life patterns, they seemed to be in
a continuous process of change that never truly stabilised.
They coped with this
continuous process in at least two different ways, including resignation or
personal growth. CONCLUSION: Stroke survivors suffered considerable ongoing and
changing difficulties in relation to disability, self-perception and to coping
with a new life. This continuous process of change could be seen to drain their
energy. The study shows that many survivors live a more home-centred life with
fewer social relations and less active participation in their community. This can
entail the risk of depression and loneliness. The study also shows, however, that
adopting an optimistic approach to life can lead to continued learning about
abilities and limitations, to the development of new skills and to the fashioning of a new self-identity.

Langue : ANGLAIS