A life interrupted: lived experiences of stroke survivors navigating physical, emotional, and social recovery: a descriptive phenomenological study

Stroke is a common cause of permanent disability among stroke survivors, affecting their body functions, emotional status, and socialization. Rehabilitation aims to improve recovery and independent living; there remains a lack of information about how stroke survivors perceive the rehabilitation process. This study aimed to explore the lived experience of stroke survivors during rehabilitation to understand the physical, emotional, and social difficulties they face while recovering. The study used a qualitative descriptive phenomenological design. Sixteen stroke survivors undergoing rehabilitation in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Tamil Nadu, India, were selected through purposive sampling. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step descriptive phenomenological method. The five major themes include: (1) A Life Interrupted - From Independence to Unexpected Illness, (2) Adjusting to a New Body, (3) Change in Roles and Identity, (4) Emotional Challenges and Psychological Adjustments, and (5) Building Strength through Support and Adaptations. Stroke survivors’ rehabilitation is an experience marked by the sudden loss of independence, physical challenges, emotional distress, changes in family and work-related roles, and future uncertainties. Although the participants faced these difficulties during rehabilitation, they were able to adapt with the help of their families, rehabilitation programs, and resilience, thereby building their hope and motivation toward recovery. Rehabilitation after a stroke goes beyond physical healing and includes psychological and social adjustment. Understanding the lived experiences of stroke survivors can aid in designing a customized rehabilitation program. Not applicable.