Exploring the clergy's role in supporting family caregivers of relatives living with stroke

Abstract

Background: Stroke is an acute neurological event that creates extensive life changes for survivors and their family caregivers. Religion, spirituality, and congregational resources can support caregivers’ quality of life, but little is known about the role that the clergy has in support of caregivers.

Aim: This study explored clergy’s roles in supporting family caregivers of relatives with stroke.

Methods: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative study was conducted with nine participants who were in a purposeful sample recruited from the faith organisations. A focus group discussion and interviews were performed for data collection. Data were thematically analysed in a credible manner through prolonged engagement and peer examination to enhance trustworthiness.

Results: Fives themes that contextualised the abilities of the clergies and their role in supporting families were identified: 1) the importance of spiri- tuality; 2) occupational role of clergy and congregational contributions; 3) family dynamics; 4) caregiver’s responsibilities and 5) vision of possibilities.

Conclusion: This study provided insight into the roles of the clergy of cler- gies as part of the interprofessional teams that support family caregivers of relatives with stroke. Furthermore, the study highlights that there is a need for clinicians, clergies, and families to collaborate so that they may exchange ideas for community stroke support programmes.