Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Caregivers' support needs and factors promoting resiliency after brain injury
Bryony Kitter1, Rachael Sharman
1School of Social Sciences, The University of the Sunshine Coast , Queensland , Australia.
Aim:
This article explores the challenges, support needs and coping strategies of caregivers of people with an acquired brain injury (ABI).
Method:
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers (n = 20) to explore their support services received, access barriers, utility of services, needed supports, coping strategies and factors promoting life satisfaction. The team recorded, transcribed verbatim and inductively analysed all interviews.
Results:
Through thematic data analysis, three central themes were revealed: (a) barriers impeding quality-of-life, (b) support needed to improve quality-of-life and (c) factors enabling quality-of-life. All perspectives from the participants involved are synthesized to provide a rich depiction of caregivers' support needs and coping strategies.
Conclusions:
Two specific findings of interest include a negative association between severity of brain injury and caregiver's desire to direct treatment, as well as a distinct service gap in assistance for caregivers who are caring for someone with violent/offending behaviours. This study recommends short- and long-term changes, given Australia's upcoming National Disability Insurance Scheme, to increase caregiver quality-of-life, which will ultimately affect the rehabilitation outcomes of persons with ABI.
Related Concept Videos
Restorative Care
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques V
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Neuroplasticity
Nursing Process for Patient and Caregiver Teaching I: Assessment and Diagnosis
It is critical to determine the patient's learning needs during the assessment. Determination of learning needs compounds data...
Bonanno's Theory of Grieving
Resilience