Mixed Methods Research on Family Caregiving for Stroke Survivors: A Methodological Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Research
• Methodology
• Family Caregiving Studies

Background:

• Family caregivers play a vital role in stroke survivor recovery.
• Mixed methods research offers a comprehensive approach to understanding complex caregiving dynamics.
• Previous reviews have not specifically focused on the methodological application of mixed methods in this field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the application of mixed methods research in family caregiving studies for stroke survivors.
• To analyze key methodological components: rationale, design, integration strategies, and use of joint displays.
• To identify strengths and limitations in current mixed methods research practices.

Main Methods:

• Methodological systematic review following PRISMA 2021 guidelines.
• Systematic search of five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO) from 2010-2025.
• Extraction and quality appraisal of 17 studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Main Results:

• Studies addressed caregiver burden, coping, resilience, and intervention outcomes.
• Convergent and explanatory sequential designs were predominant.
• Complementarity was the most common rationale; integration primarily occurred through merging, with limited use of joint displays.

Conclusions:

• Mixed methods research is increasingly utilized in stroke family caregiving.
• Methodological gaps exist in reporting design features and advanced integration techniques.
• Recommendations focus on strengthening integration and transparency to enhance evidence for practice and policy.