Caregiving experiences of stroke caregivers: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies

Caregivers of stroke patients have demanding caregiving tasks and roles, and they face multiple challenges and a variety of needs in their caregiving process. This study aimed to systematically integrate and evaluate qualitative research data to understand the care experiences of caregivers of stroke patients and to provide them with targeted assistance.

We critically assessed the study using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklist for Qualitative Research. Extraction, summarization and meta-synthesis of qualitative data. Qualitative studies related to this study were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, China Biomedical Literature Database, and Wanfang Database by computer from the establishment of the database to February 2022. The method of tracing citations was used to find other articles that might be included to ensure the comprehensiveness of the search articles.

A total of 11 studies, including 167 participants, were included, and 40 research results were extracted, summarized into 8 new categories, and formed 2 meta-themes. Meta-theme 1: Caregivers had emotional struggles during caregiving but were still able to provide compassion and care for patients through positive coping. Meta-theme 2: caregivers faced many difficulties in the care process and were eager for support.

Caregiving is a long and heavy process. Society, medical institutions, and families should pay full attention to the feelings and needs of stroke caregivers in the care process and provide appropriate support for them.