Experiences of Caring for Adults with Acquired Physical Disabilities: A Qualitative Study

Context: Caregivers provide much-needed support for people with acquired physical disabilities to reintegrate into society. However, caregivers themselves may require support to manage the diverse responsibilities associated with caring for these individuals. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of caregivers in supporting people with acquired physical disabilities due to stroke or spinal cord injury. Methods: This was a qualitative study. We invited caregivers from a local rehabilitation program to complete an interview about their experiences. The qualitative data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Findings: We recruited 16 caregivers (median age = 43 years). Their anecdotes revealed various responsibilities and challenges related to being a caregiver. Despite the challenges they faced, they appeared to prioritise the needs of their care-receivers. As a result, they were ambivalent about seeking support for themselves. Limitations: Due to the small sample size and context of the study, the transferability of findings to other caregiver groups should be done cautiously. Implications: Caregivers face challenges and may need long-term support to facilitate their care-receivers with acquired physical disabilities to regain skills and reintegrate into their communities. Caregiver support services are integral to any community rehabilitation program for people with acquired physical disabilities. Care professionals in such programs can play a role in educating caregivers about the impacts of caregiver burden on health and well-being while encouraging them to seek the appropriate support services. Care organisations should explore options for offering caregiver support services in more convenient and coordinated ways.