The Experience of Younger Women Stroke Survivors: “I burst into tears when they told me I’d had a stroke”

Abstract

Background: The incidence of stroke in young women is higher than previously believed, attributed to specific risk factors leading to unique stroke symptoms. After a stroke, women experience a disproportionate burden, facing challenges in prompt recognition and diagnosis, which can delay treatment and rehabilitation. Consequently, younger women stroke survivors may experience more disability and a poorer quality of life. Existing studies on stroke rehabilitation programs do not specifically address their challenges and needs. Further investigation is required to assess their challenges and identify potential stroke care strategies to reduce their burden. Aim This study investigates the experiences of younger women stroke survivors and describes their needs with the aim of identifying strategies to better meet their needs post stroke. Method: This study utilized a qualitative methodology to examine the experiences and needs of younger women stroke survivors. Adopting a constructionist interpretive approach, data was collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The study consisted of five sequential phases: Pre-phase (an integrative literature review), Phase 1 (experiences of younger women stroke survivors), Phase 2 (perspectives of healthcare professionals), Phase 3 (rehabilitation preferences), and Phase 4 (development of a stroke rehabilitation framework). Findings: This sequential, multi-phase study involved five younger women stroke survivors (three phases) and five healthcare professionals (one phase). The survivors faced complex impacts of stroke: Women's reproductive health issues, post-stroke health management, and the need for specific support. Healthcare professional also identified their complex issues and support needs and suggested a specific stroke rehabilitation program. The development of a stroke rehabilitation program emphasises the need of tailored support that considers personalised goal-setting, holistic and interdisciplinary approach and continuity of care. Conclusions: Younger women stroke survivors face complex and challenging impacts of stroke. Existing stroke rehabilitation has not yet addressed their specific needs. Future implications for research: Stroke rehabilitation framework testing, co-design stroke rehabilitation program and more extensive studies on this demographic. At the policy level: Public awareness strategies include improved prevention and stroke recognition. In practice: The implementation of holistic and interdisciplinary approaches to stroke management. Finally, in education: increasing awareness among the public, healthcare students, and professionals regarding the specific issues faced by younger women stroke survivors.