A qualitative study on psycho-social needs of the family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injury

Abstract

ABSTRACT Spinal cord injury is a high-cost long-lasting disability and a life-changing experience for family caregivers (FCGs). The current study aimed to explore the psycho-social needs of the FCGs of persons with spinal cord injury (PwSCI). An exploratory qualitative approach was used, and sixteen FCGs of PwSCI participated in the face-to-face interviews. All the interviews were audio-recorded, and session notes were added to the existing data and later transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify the main themes. Three main themes have emerged, namely, awareness needs, resource needs, and personal care needs, from the data as a result of the qualitative analysis: The main themes have been categorised into nine sub-themes, such as want to know, alternative ways of contacting, the helpful or conducive environment of arrangements, sources to get money, pension certificate needs, resources for livelihood, resources for continuing the treatment, need my own time, and controlling of feelings. The findings of this research aid in designing or developing need-based tailor-made psychosocial interventions for the FCGs of PwSCI in India. Multidisciplinary team professionals involved in managing spinal cord injury and other stakeholders should understand the importance of meeting the mentioned psycho-social needs of FCGs of PwSCI and delivering such tailor-made psycho-social interventions in a timely.