Caring for a Family Member with Stroke during the COVID-19 Pandemic

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: To report the experiences of family caregivers caring for individuals with stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged as an unexpected finding when investigating their quality of life and unmet needs. DESIGN: Data were collected using a cross-sectional, qualitative, semi-structured interview of family caregivers of individuals with stroke. Using the NVivo 12 software, an inductive thematic analysis was implemented. SETTING: Participants were recruited from the general community. PARTICIPANTS: Eligible participants were (1) next of kin of individuals with stroke, (2) aged 18 and above, (3) have adequate communication skills. 17 adults (12 females, 5 males) were included in the final analysis. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: An outcome measure was an interview guide containing questions about family caregiver's experiences caring for individuals with stroke. RESULTS: Key themes described (1) the loss in valued activity and social participation, (2) systemic barriers of COVID-19, and (3) the positive impact of COVID-19. The pandemic has disrupted social participation, leading to a loss in valued activities. Systemic barriers of COVID-19 included an increased cost in hiring a helper, as well as finding a job during a critical time of caregiving, which had shown to exacerbate one's psychoemotional state. Some positive impact of COVID-19 included more time spent with family and kindness from the hospital staff. CONCLUSIONS: Family members of individuals with stroke reported numerous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinicians should provide alternative mode of support and services, such as an online social support, to combat the loss in social activities during the pandemic. Future study can explore the role of virtual psychosocial support for family caregivers of individuals with stroke. AUTHOR(S) DISCLOSURES: None.