Article

Stroke is a major cause of disability worldwide and affects a
significant number of working age adults each year. The consequences of stroke
impact upon both young stroke survivors and their partners and this study aimed
to qualitatively explore their joint experience. METHODS: Eight joint
semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using IPA. RESULTS: Three
themes were identified: (1) "How's this happened?"--Making sense of the stroke;
(2) "Is this what life is going to be like now?"--From partners to carer and
"cared for"; (3) "I lost being a man. I was a little boy, being looked after all
the time"--From partners to parent and child. CONCLUSIONS: Stroke at a young age
can significantly disrupt couples' life biographies. The findings highlight the
need for both partners to adapt to their reciprocal relationship role changes and
the importance of addressing the couple as a focus for intervention. Implications
for Rehabilitation Stroke at a young age is an abrupt event that impacts upon
both partners in a relationship. The findings add insight to some of the issues
faced by young stroke survivors and their partners, which can now be considered
in tailoring treatment to this specific cohort within the context of services
predominated by older adults. The findings highlight significant relationship
role changes experienced within couples, which suggests a need for rehabilitation
interventions to focus on the adjustment of both partners.

Langue : ANGLAIS