Investigating navigational support for people living with stroke in Aotearoa New Zealand

Stroke services and supports can be complex and life after stroke can be challenging to navigate.

This study explored and developed principles for optimal navigational support after stroke, in Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand.

A co-design team including people living with stroke, their whānau/family, clinicians and researchers working in the stroke field designed and informed this research. Two focus groups of service providers and Māori people affected by stroke considered optimal navigational support after stroke. A co-design team workshop then established core principles for an enhanced navigational system for people living with stroke and their family based on the focus group analysis and considering principles from existing navigational models in Aotearoa. This workshop was audio-recorded and thematic analysis completed.

The core principles for enhanced navigation identified were having access to one trusted person who promoted (1) a holistic approach, (2) building connections, (3) clear pathways and (4) empowerment. Navigational support should be available to all people living with stroke, spanning both their rehabilitation journey and living well after stroke, including their family.

These insights could be used to improve existing navigational services and inform future navigational initiatives, thereby improving journeys for people affected by stroke.