Rural Stroke Caregivers: A Qualitative Study of the Positive and Negative Response to the Caregiver Role

Caregivers are often referred to as the "hidden patients." Rarely has caregiving research focused on the positive aspects of caregiving. The purpose of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of caregivers of stroke survivors who have been in the caregiver role for at least 6 months poststroke. The conceptual framework was based on a combination of Lazarus' stress and coping theory and Weiner's attribution theory. A qualitative cross-sectional design was employed. It involved a sample of 10 caregivers from a rural county in Wyoming. A total of 24 categories were identified and five themes emerged: (1) a sense of loyalty; (2) acceptance; (3) a sense of "feeling good"; (4) satisfaction is associated with helping others; and (5) burden is associated with lifestyle change. Participants in this study reported several positive outcomes as well as some negative outcomes in regard to their role as caregivers.