Informal stroke rehabilitation: what do Thai caregivers perform?

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2006

Authors

Jullamate, P (Author) Other; de Azeredo, Z (Author) Other; Constança Paúl (Author) ICBAS; Subgranon, R (Author) Other

Journal

Title: International Journal of Rehabilitation Research

Vol. 29

Pages: 309-314

ISSN: 0342-5282

Publisher: Wolters Kluwer Health

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 8 Citations

Scopus - 10 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-004-FQW

DOI: 10.1097/mrr.0b013e328010f507

Abstract (EN): Our aim was to explore the informal rehabilitation activities performed by Thai caregivers for stroke survivors at home. Twenty primary informal caregivers; were individually interviewed, using semi-structured questions developed by researchers, to investigate the informal rehabilitation activities provided for the stroke survivors at their homes. All interviews were audiotape recorded and some pictures of rehabilitation activities were taken during data collection. The data collected underwent content analysis. Findings revealed three major categories of rehabilitation activities - biological, psychological and social rehabilitation. Biological rehabilitation was the most frequently undertaken by all Thai caregivers. Several methods were used to rehabilitate the stroke survivors in each category, based on the scientific background and cultural beliefs of the caregivers and survivors. In conclusion, informal caregivers always have in mind all activities, thus providing a holistic approach for informal rehabilitation. This plays a very significant role in minimizing residual disabilities, preventing related complications and sustaining the well-being of stroke survivors. Health professionals should motivate caregivers of stroke survivors to maintain informal rehabilitation activity at home. Additionally, health care providers should be concerned about the coordination between institutional and informal rehabilitation in order to better optimize the quality of care provided at home.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6