Exploring the homecoming: a qualitative multimethod approach to understanding stroke survivors and their caregivers’ experience

Abstract

Purpose: To explore and compare the experiences and perceptions of stroke survivors and caregivers during the transition period from hospital to home. Materials and methods: A qualitative study was conducted involving face-to-face interviews with 19 stroke survivors and 18 caregivers, to explore their experience with the transition from hospital to home, adopting Automatic Analysis of Textual Data for data analysis. The sample was recruited from neurology wards in Italy. Data collection focused on participants’ experiences, needs, and challenges of participants during the transition period. Ethical approval and participant consent were obtained. Findings: The findings revealed distinct but interconnected experiences of stroke survivors and caregivers. Stroke survivors primarily expressed physical and emotional struggles, while caregivers highlighted the need for preparation and support. Key themes included the critical role of pre-discharge planning, the impact of social support on recovery, and the shared burden of transitioning to new routines. Hierarchical descending classification identified eight thematic domains, underscoring the complexity of transition care needs. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of individualized and integrated transitional care interventions that address the diverse needs of stroke survivors and caregivers. The innovative use of AATD provided deeper insight into their shared and unique experiences, advocating for tailored strategies to enhance recovery and quality of life.