Supporting someone after their stroke: family members' views and experiences of self-management

PURPOSE: Self-management has increased in recognition in stroke research and rehabilitation along with growing trends of shorter hospital stays and more patient-centred care. Family members are key persons in the self-management process, but their views and experiences of self-management have not been studied in detail. This study aimed to explore family members' understanding of self-management, the strategies they use and the challenges they face when providing support.

METHODS: For this descriptive study, semi-structured interviews with family members (n = 27) were conducted. Data were analysed using inductive content analysis.

RESULTS: The analysis resulted in three main categories and eight subcategories. Most family members saw self-management as performing practical tasks, such as daily living activities and rehabilitation training. However, family members described a broad range of actions to support self-management, including emotional and motivational support. They found it challenging to give the right amount of support and expressed a need of more information after discharge.

CONCLUSIONS: Family members' conceptualisations of self-management differ from the strategies they use to provide support. A clearer understanding of self-management as a collective process can benefit the development and delivery of efficient self-management support.