The Lived Experiences of Individuals with Partners suffering from Stroke and Aphasia

Over one million people suffer from a stroke each year in the UK which can consequently lead to aphasia causing speech and language problems in individuals. Carers who are also the partners of people with stroke and aphasia are seen as especially vulnerable (Plank et al. 2012). Research has been carried out in relation to carers of stroke in the past and particular importance was given to the transition period for these carers where they have to adapt to new roles and responsibilities to be able to care for stroke patients. The current study explored the lived experiences of partners of individuals with a stroke and aphasia. This was done by utilising the interpretive phenomenological analysis in order to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that these carers may experience. This study has explored the experiences of spouses in particular, and from different ethnic backgrounds. Five partners were involved in the study; two white and three Asians (Pakistani). Previous research lacks qualitative explorations in the area particularly regarding individuals from different ethnic minorities (Gardois et al., 2014). Therefore the current research can add to the previous literature by adding thoughts and perceptions regarding spouse care from multiple backgrounds. The study established a major change in roles and responsibilities within partners caring for their spouses. These changes led to increased burden of care and emotional strain. An additional factor found in this study was the obstacles for those who did not speak English as their first language as they found it difficult to access relevant information. Hence further research would benefit those from cultural backgrounds where English is not the first language and also to support partners from multiple backgrounds with the increased burden of responsibilities.