Managing stroke recovery: a thematic analysis of the coping strategies and social support of Singaporean stroke survivors and spousal caregivers

Abstract

Stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers face a range of new challenges when they transition back home upon discharge from inpatient-care. To best support them, it is crucial to understand their individual and dyadic coping strategies, along with the kind of social support that they receive and desire. However, there is a lack of qualitative research on their coping strategies and social support across time. Such studies could provide healthcare professionals with a more accurate picture of how Singaporean spousal dyads are managing with stroke recovery at home and shed light on how to optimise the necessary support that can be extended to them. A constructivist paradigm and phenomenological stance were adopted in this study. Four spousal dyads were recruited and engaged in semi-structured English interviews at two timepoints that were three months apart. The data gathered from the interviews was analysed using Thematic Analysis. The first main theme is called Individual Practices, which encompasses two subthemes: Embracing Blessings and Remaining Hopeful. The second main theme is called Dyadic Practices, which comprises three subthemes: Collaboration in Regaining Functioning; Reciprocating Care; and Choosing to Empathise. The final main theme is called Essential Assistance, which consists of three subthemes: Community Helping Hands; Emotional Fuel; and Expert Knowledge. The current study shows that Singaporean spousal dyads utilise a range of coping strategies and rely on multiple types of social support from their community and healthcare team, ultimately highlighting that it takes a village to facilitate stroke recovery. Clinical implications are discussed.