What Are Male Caregivers Talking About?

Abstract

Purpose: Using secondary analysis and Friedemann’s framework of systemic organization as a guide, the purpose of this article is to examine the experience of a subsample of five men caring for women with stroke who participated for 3 months in a Web-based support group. Method: Analysis of qualitative data (N = 224 entries) obtained from interview questions and discussion amongst the caregivers followed established protocols. Results: Results revealed that these men were dealing with role changes and women’s depression and irritability. The stroke event also fostered closer family ties and “being there” for one another. Conclusion: These findings begin to explore the complex experience of men caring for women with stroke.

Keywords:

• depression
• male caregivers
• physical and emotional support
• role change
• stroke