Experiences of Family Caregivers Providing Home Based Care to Stroke Survivors in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of death and long term disability worldwide. After hospital discharge, family caregivers assume responsibility for caring for survivors at home and facilitating follow-up care. However, the challenges they face and how they cope within the Tanzanian context remain underexplored. This study aimed to explore the experiences of family caregivers providing home based care to stroke survivors in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods: An exploratory qualitative design was employed. Sixteen family caregivers accompanying patients to the hospital were purposively selected for in-depth interviews. Data were collected using audio recordings and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework, was used to generate themes and subthemes.
Results: Two main themes emerged from data analysis: (1) Challenges of caring for stroke survivors at home. The theme had three subthemes: Financial burden, Limited access to medical equipment and essential supplies and Knowledge deficits in caregiving. (2) Coping with caregiving challenges with subthemes: Acceptance of caregiving responsibilities and Seeking social and spiritual support.
Conclusion: The study revealed that family caregivers remain willing to care for stroke affected relatives despite encountering significant challenges. To enhance their capacity, it is crucial to develop or strengthen strategies that empower family caregivers, enabling them to make informed decisions and adapt to their new caregiving roles. Furthermore, improving pre and post discharge education and strengthening connections to social support systems are essential steps in supporting the caregivers.