MAKASSAR, Indonesia January 30, 2026/EAGING/- Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Beyond the hospital walls, recovery often continues at home, where family members become the primary caregivers. A recent integrative review, “Family Experience in Caring for Patients with Stroke: An Integrative Review” (published in Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science, Bangladesh Journals Online (BanglaJOL) on January 27, 2026), highlights an important reality: the family is not just a support system—family involvement can significantly influence the recovery and quality of life of stroke survivors.
The review found that stroke survivors frequently experience paralysis, reduced mobility, and long-term physical limitations. Many patients require ongoing care at home, especially during the first months after a stroke. In this phase, family members help with daily activities such as mobility, medication routines, emotional encouragement, and rehabilitation exercises. Without this support, recovery can become slower and more challenging.
However, caring for a stroke survivor is not always easy. Families often face emotional stress, physical fatigue, and financial pressure. Many caregivers also lack adequate knowledge about stroke management, rehabilitation techniques, or how to prevent complications. Studies included in the review revealed that limited knowledge among family caregivers can reduce the effectiveness of home care and even affect patient outcomes.
This is why education and support for families are crucial. When caregivers receive proper information about stroke symptoms, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies, they become more confident and capable. Health professionals can help by providing training programs, educational materials, and ongoing guidance for families. Such initiatives empower families to become active partners in the recovery process rather than passive observers.
The findings strongly connect with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being. SDG 3 aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all ages. Supporting families who care for stroke survivors directly contributes to this goal. By strengthening family knowledge, improving home-based care, and promoting collaboration between healthcare providers and caregivers, communities can help stroke survivors regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Family-centered care also has broader social benefits. When families are equipped with the right skills and information, hospital readmissions may decrease, healthcare costs can be reduced, and patients can recover more comfortably in their own homes. In other words, investing in family education is also an investment in public health.
Ultimately, stroke recovery is not only a medical journey—it is a family journey. Healthcare systems must recognise the vital role that families play in rehabilitation. When families are supported, patients are supported. And when patients recover more effectively, society moves one step closer to achieving SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.
Reference
DOI:Â https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v25i1.86403
Contact:
Andi Masyitha Irwan, S.Kep., Ns., MAN., Ph.D.
+6285342600183
citha_ners@med.unhas.ac.id
