Participants’ experiences of hospital-based peer support groups for stroke patients and carers

Abstract

Participation in the group was experienced as beneficial by participants. Benefits included helpful information, advice, making new connections and increased awareness of stroke. Participants identified important group processes such as upward and downward comparison. Responses to the TFI suggested that attendance brought therapeutic gains.

Development and Evaluation of a Hospital-Based Peer Support Group for Younger Individuals with Stroke

“…Because stroke survivors are at risk for social isolation, disruption in roles, and changes in psychosocial factors, having a program that individuals can attend at their own volition can be viewed as empowering, supportive, and positive (Morris & Morris, 2012). Essentially, the YESS program can serve as an inclusive community that can provide opportunities to address such risk factors.…”

“…As designed, the YESS program may become a long-term support resource that has the potential to keep members connected to a program so they can learn skills to advocate for their recovery and integrate back into premorbid roles. Morris and Morris (2012) identified the importance of staff presence and involvement during group modules. Because it is a clinician run program, staff can monitor changes and continue to support members as their needs change.…”

“…As recognized by Morris and Morris (2012), the YESS group encompassed age-matched peers for catharsis, installation of hope, normalcy, and socialization. Facilitators set clear inclusion and exclusion criteria and administered a client-based needs assessment prior to the development of the group to focus on the needs of the younger stroke survivor.…”

“…Social learning theory was used to guide the implementation of YESS in a way consistent with other authors who report positive impact using peer interaction, active participation and cognitive behavioral strategies within groups that target psychosocial needs after stroke (Ch'Ng et al, 2008;Morris, 2011, Morris & Morris, 2012. Literature centered on stroke support groups report that individuals benefit from active strategies such as modeling to promote coping and adaptation (Ch'Ng et al, 2008.…”

Physical environments and community reintegration post stroke: qualitative insights from stroke clubs

“…Addressing an overlooked area, with stroke clubs being an understudied variety of peer support (Morris and Morris 2012), the study found that these groups were valued for providing individuals with opportunities to meet others in similar circumstances, visit interesting places and take part in enjoyable activities. Clubs were fun, informal spaces where members often related to one another through humour and felt comfortable discussing issues, sharing experiences and passing on advice.…”