Experiences and needs of stroke patients living with dysphagia during rehabilitation: a qualitative meta-synthesis

To systematically review and summarise the experiences and needs of patients with post stroke dysphagia from the perspective of their involvement in the rehabilitation management of swallowing function.

A systematic literature search was conducted. Contains qualitative studies related to the experiences and needs of patients with post stroke dysphagia who participate in rehabilitation management. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed by two independent reviewers. Overarching themes, concepts and interpretations were extracted from each individual study, compared and meta-synthesised.

Five studies were included, with 17 initial themes consolidated into three core themes through meta-synthesis: (i) Recovery experience, (ii) Coping experience, (iii) Support needs. Seven subthemes further delineated barriers and facilitators influencing rehabilitation engagement.

Patients with post stroke dysphagia require rehabilitation strategies that holistically address psychosocial challenges and systemic support gaps. Healthcare professionals should prioritise patients' psychological and social needs through adaptable rehabilitation plans, while families, healthcare institutions, and communities must collaborate to provide sustained personalised assistance for improving rehabilitation adherence.