Stroke patients' carers' views of formal community support

Stroke is a common, disabling condition. Those who look after stroke patients in the community are placed under a lot of strain. In this study a purposive sample of eight carers, chosen to obtain as wide a spread of opinion as possible, were interviewed in depth on their views about the formal support services they receive in the community. A detailed content analysis of the transcripts of the interviews revealed four areas important to carers: information and education; provision of practical help; convenience, coordination and adaptability of service; and consultation with and consideration of the carer. In all areas there was considerable room for improvement. Carers particularly valued community care professionals who listened to them, seemed to understand them and were prepared to put in some effort for them. The importance of ongoing information provision was stressed.