Rehabilitation Professionals’ Perspectives on Psychosocial Needs of Family Caregivers of Persons with Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study from India

Abstract

Background: This study explored the psychosocial needs of family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injuries from the perspective of rehabilitation professionals.Methods: An exploratory qualitative approach was used, and a total of 14 rehabilitation professionals from various backgrounds participated in face-to-face interviews. All interviews were audio recorded, and session notes were added to the existing data and later transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes.Results: Nine need themes emerged: informational, psychological, personal care, financial, social support, welfare, vocational, telemedicine, and referral.Conclusion: The findings of this study will aid the design or development of need-based customized psychosocial interventions for family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injuries in India. Multiple stakeholders involved in spinal cord injury management should understand the importance of meeting the needs of family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injuries and the timely delivery of customized psychosocial interventions.