The Impact of Stroke and Stroke-Induced Aphasia on Parent-Child Relationships: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Affected Children

Stroke, a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, significantly impacts entire family units. While research has focused on stroke prevention, diagnosis and rehabilitation, little attention has been paid to the social implications of stroke – particularly its impact on the younger children of stroke survivors. This thesis addresses this gap through a comprehensive scoping review and a qualitative study protocol. The scoping review maps the current literature on the experiences of children whose parents have suffered a stroke, identifying key themes and resources developed and utilized. The qualitative study protocol outlines a framework for exploring the lived experiences of children with a parent who has acquired, stroke-based aphasia. This dual approach aims to deepen our understanding of the unique challenges faced by children impacted by parental stroke, inform the development of effective support mechanisms to facilitate their adaptation and resilience, and contribute to more holistic care strategies for families affected by stroke.