Necessidades de autogestão após AVC: perspetivas de pessoas com AVC e cuidadores informais: Compreensão das necessidades de autogestão após AVC

Daniel de Carvalho; Mara Matos; José Calheiros; Carla Pereira

doi:10.31211/rpics.2025.11.2.365

Authors

Daniel de Carvalho Unidade Local de Saúde do Litoral Alentejano https://orcid.org/0009-0001-7518-2924
Mara Matos Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0405-2401
José Calheiros Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2724-0675
Carla Pereira Instituto Politecnico de Setubal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2899-9640

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31211/rpics.2025.11.2.365

Keywords:

Stroke, Self-Efficacy , Self-Management, Informal Caregivers, Needs Assessment, Qualitative Research

Abstract

Background: Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in Portugal, and a 20% increase in the number of people living with stroke sequelae is expected by 2035. Studies indicate that both stroke survivors and informal caregivers often report feeling abandoned after hospital discharge, with an increased risk of readmission. Objective: To understand the self-management needs of stroke survivors and informal caregivers, and to explore healthcare professionals’ perspectives on facilitating strategies throughout the rehabilitation process. Method: A qualitative, multi-perspective study was conducted with semi-structured individual interviews with 23 participants (7 stroke patients, 7 informal caregivers, and 9 healthcare professionals), after ethical approval from the Local Health Unit of Litoral Alentejano. Data were subjected to a reflexive thematic analysis using NVivo 11. Results: Two themes emerged: "The new self" and "Taking back control", reflecting the need for stroke survivors and caregivers to adapt to post-stroke changes. Health literacy and empowerment were identified as crucial for effective self-management, contributing to improved quality of life and reduced dependence on healthcare professionals. Conclusions: Post-stroke self-management requires personalized and integrated approaches that actively engage stroke survivors and caregivers. The findings support the development of hybrid self-management programs with clinical applicability, relevance for public policies, and potential for adaptation to other chronic conditions, thereby promoting greater autonomy and continuity of care in the community.

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