Study shows impact of stroke on couples

Suffering a stroke can lead to significant changes in how couples relate to each other on a physical and emotional level, according to a new study

Researchers from Northern Ireland found that sexual relationships were significantly affected after a stroke, gender roles became blurred and feelings like anger and frustration were confounded by lack of independence and ongoing fatigue.

All the participants in the study perceived a stroke as a life-changing event. They said they faced a continuous daily struggle to achieve some sense of normality and that required huge amounts of physical and mental effort, the authors said.

The study, carried out by researchers at the Nursing Research Institute and the Southern Health and Social Services Trust in Northern Ireland, was carried out on 16 married stroke survivors aged between 33 and 78.

All but one of the respondents reported a reduction or total loss of sexual desire after their stroke. Some felt this was down to medication and fear of having another stroke.

Most of the women in the survey lost interest in their appearance, regardless of their age.

In addition,all the respondents said they had changed since their strike and irritability, anger, agitation and intolerance were frequently mentioned.

Many of the people who had had a stroke said their outbursts of anger reflected their frustration at not being able to perform routine daily activities. Over-protective spouses appeared to increase anger and frustration.

The study authors have recommended that nurse education should focus on both the physical and psychosocial effects of stroke so that nurses can provide holistic care to stroke survivors and their spouses.

They said healthcare professionals and service providers  should be sensitive to the profound impact of stroke on sexuality and sexual function.

The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing.

[Posted: Mon 02/11/2009]