5509V - The Psychosocial Impact of Post-Stroke Dysphagia on the Familial Dyad

Post-stroke dysphagia can have a lasting effect on the quality of life of both the stroke survivor and their informal caregivers. This qualitative study explored the relationship between post-stroke dysphagia and family dynamics. Individual and dyadic semi-structured interviews were conducted. Results revealed a perceived lack of autonomy among the stroke survivors due to their inability to partake in activities they once enjoyed, a lack of appropriate support and individualized guidance from medical professionals, and a toll on the mental health of both the stroke survivors and their family members. These findings support the need to integrate psychosocial supports for both survivors and their family caregivers into speech-language pathology interventions.