Benefits finding among Chinese family caregivers of stroke survivors: a qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

ObjectivesThe caregiving experience includes both caregiver burdens and benefits finding. However, the benefits obtained by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings are unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the benefits experienced by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings.DesignA qualitative descriptive design was used, fulfilling the consolidated criteria for the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guidelines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 family caregivers of stroke survivors. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed. Thematic analysis was performed to analyse the interview transcripts.Setting and participantsHome interviews were conducted with family caregivers of stroke survivors in two communities in Zhengzhou, China.ResultsThe family caregivers of stroke survivors experienced various benefits from caregiving. There were both internal benefits (increases in knowledge and skills, the development of positive attitudes, and the development of a sense of worthiness and achievement) and external benefits (family growth and gains in social support), which interact to create a healthy lifestyle.ConclusionOur findings provide a comprehensive perspective in understanding the benefits perceived by family caregivers of stroke survivors. This study provides insights into interventions focused on identifying benefits finding in six domains that may help reduce negative emotions and promote the mental health of caregivers.

The associations between caregivers’ psychosocial characteristics and caregivers’ depressive symptoms in stroke settings: a cohort study

“…A qualitative study from China found that caregivers viewed their role as an obligation and expressive of love [ 39 ]. Another qualitative study on Chinese caregivers unveiled that caregiver was able to spend more time with the patients following a stroke event [ 40 ]. Moreover, caregivers became more reliable and sensible in the process [ 40 ].…”

“…Another qualitative study on Chinese caregivers unveiled that caregiver was able to spend more time with the patients following a stroke event [ 40 ]. Moreover, caregivers became more reliable and sensible in the process [ 40 ]. These benefits acquired from having good patient-caregiver relationships may negate caregivers’ depressive symptoms.…”

The experience of family caregivers of patients receiving home nasogastric tube feeding in China: A descriptive qualitative study

“…Although it is praised in China, there is no government or community social service assistance, which leads to a greater burden on caregivers. 17,18 Health policy-makers' attention is increasingly directed toward the social challenges of caregiver burden and burnout. 19 It is essential for home medical care to include caregiver perspectives and needs as a standard component of its assessment and plan.…”

“…indicated that Chinese American caregivers pay special attention to ‘filial piety’ originating from Confucian philosophy, which integrates ‘responsibility’ with caregiving from family members. Although it is praised in China, there is no government or community social service assistance, which leads to a greater burden on caregivers 17,18 …”

Information, Involvement, Self-care and Support - The Needs of Caregivers of People with Stroke: A Grounded Theory Approach

“…In contrast, others did not, hence highlighting differences in care that bring challenges in understanding care needs. However, it is important to note that the role of a caregiver is well documented [22,[37][38][39][40][41]. Further, by addressing the individual needs of stroke caregivers, it is possible to limit the feelings of fear, uncertainty, isolation, burnout, fatigue, etc.…”