A Descriptive Look at Women of Color with Children Affected by Stroke

Stroke is common in women and may occur during mid-life, a time when many women may be parents of children living at home. Research indicates the ability to parent after stroke is often markedly affected. Some women may experience challenges in the areas of physical impairment, cognitive deficit, and social emotional well-being. Racial differences in post-stroke function are also well established, with the incidence in Blacks twice as high as that of Whites. Furthermore, Black women experience stroke twice as much as White women and as such, have a higher degree of post-stroke disability. However, the literature is lacking in the exploration of how stroke may specifically impact women of color with children. Further research is needed to understand the basic characteristics affecting this target population. The current study was a secondary data analysis of 279 women aged 18 to 65 years old, post-stroke, with at least one child under 18 in the home from the National Health Interview Survey database (2015-2019). Forty nine percent of participants reported having a family income of less than $35,000, an indicator of low socioeconomic status. Findings revealed women of color post-stroke experienced more difficulties with activities related to caring for children in comparison to White women. Overall, all women participants reported low indices of social-emotional health. Women of color affected by stroke present with distinct challenges, especially when continuing their role as parent. This information will assist rehabilitation professionals to facilitate improved health and function for this target group.