EXPERIENCES OF YOUNG ADULTS LIVING WITH STROKE IN THE ACCRA METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT Stroke has a devastating effect on young adults between the ages of 18-45years. In Ghana, there is paucity of research in stroke among young people, but stroke is said to be increasing among younger age groups of adults less than 45 years; forming greater than 30% of strokes seen and at a higher mortality rate. This research was conducted in Accra, Ghana, to explore the experiences of Young Adults (18-45years) living with stroke. A qualitative explorative descriptive design was used to explore the experiences of the young adults who participated in the study and purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit ten participants. Data was collected using tape recorded interviews which lasted between 45minutes to1hour 30 minutes and guided by a semi-structured interview guide which was informed by the research objectives and literature review. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the transcribed data and six major themes were derived namely; Disruption to body-self, disruption to social identity, disruption to personal agency, disruption to economic circumstances, illness action and lack of continuity of care. Young Adults living with stroke were affected physically by various signs and symptoms which negatively impacted their physical health. They were unable to work and perform simple tasks. They experienced social isolation, fear, anxiety, depression, guilt and had suicidal ideations. They coped with their condition through spiritual practices and beliefs, self-determination, support from family, friends, employers and co-workers and some took to herbal medicine. Stroke Survivors lacked information about the cause of their stroke and about stroke and its related signs and symptoms. Provision of continuity of care for young adults living with stroke and further research as well as public education on stroke amongst young adults was highly recommended