Perceptions of Family Support in the Stroke Prevention Program Make My Day

Background. Numerous risk factors for stroke are modifiable and are associated with lifestyle and daily habits. An occupational perspective in prevention, which emphasizes habits and routines, can facilitate sustainable and healthy lifestyle changes. Additionally, lifestyle changes generally take place within a social context, making family involvement indispensable. Purpose. This study aims to explore family support from the perspective of persons with risk for stroke (PWRS) who participated in an occupation-based stroke prevention program, and their family members. Method. Explorative qualitative design using interviews was conducted with 10 PWRS who participated in the Make My Day intervention and 10 family members of intervention participants, including both married and nonmarried partners and adult children. Data were analyzed using an inductive semantic approach and reflexive thematic analysis. Findings. Family support depends on the nature of relationships, the family's willingness to accept support, and expectations. Three themes were generated through the analysis: (a) shared perspectives on lifestyle influence support, (b) balancing support and individual responsibility, and (c) generating tensions from different views on health and lifestyle habits. Conclusion. Family support encourages lifestyle changes by sharing activities, offering encouragement, and providing positive reinforcement. Nonetheless, difficulties can occur in maintaining a balance between supporting family members and respecting their personal responsibility, particularly when family members have varying levels of understanding regarding health.