Exploring Social Support and Cognitive Function in Stroke Survivors

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) representing a particularly life-threatening subtype. Cognitive impairment is prevalent among SAH survivors and affects their daily activities and quality of life. Several factors may be associated with cognitive function, but their roles in SAH survivors remain uncertain, particularly regarding long-term cognitive outcomes. Social support is critical to recovery, as it promotes health and well-being by buffering stress and providing support after stressful situations. It is significantly associated with improved physical outcomes and post-stroke quality of life among survivors. However, the concept of social support in stroke survivors has not been well-defined. Moreover, survivors’ experiences and perceptions of support differ across a range of personal, cultural, and contextual factors. To address these gaps, the overarching aim of this dissertation is to advance knowledge and understanding of recovery following stroke, with specific emphasis on SAH survivors. This dissertation includes three manuscripts: (1) Social Support Among Stroke Survivors: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis, (2) Factors Associated with Cognitive Function After a Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, and (3) Social Support Experiences During the First Year Post-Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Qualitative Study.