Traditional Family Care for Elderly Survivors of a First Stroke

Abstract

Introduction: Many people in the world suffer a stroke and it is the leading cause of death. Survivors may encounter disabilities and be subject to changes in their daily activities. The family is the main source of support for a stroke survivor and, because it is part of the same culture, the family constructs actions for care in pursuit of well-being. Objective: This research was designed to describe the sort of traditional care families generally provide to elderly survivors of a first stroke. Method: It is an ethnographic study featuring participant observation and in-depth interviews. Seven families from Bogotá took part (seven seniors between two and ten months after their first stroke and their seven respective primary caregivers). Results: The caregivers and the elderly adults in question share actions for recovery related to food, personal care and medication intake that are permeated by religious beliefs, a source of support and bonding. Conclusion: Understanding the type of traditional care provided by this population makes it possible to propose action that is culturally congruent with their values and beliefs, so as to empower the capacity of families and mediate in treatment processes.