Experiences of family caregivers of older adults with stroke regarding caregiving competency: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: With increasing life expectancy and the growing older adult population, stroke has become increasingly prevalent as one of the leading causes of long-term disability. A substantial proportion of the caregiving burden is borne by family caregivers. Caregiving competency plays a pivotal role in the quality of care, prevention of secondary complications, and improvement of patient outcomes. PURPOSE: To elucidate the experiences of family caregivers of older adults with stroke regarding caregiving competency from the caregivers' perspective. METHOD: This qualitative study was conducted in Iran from 2024 to 2025 using a conventional content analysis approach based on the method proposed by Elo and Kyngäs (2008). Participants consisted of 14 family caregivers of older adults with stroke who were selected purposively. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, and data analysis was performed in three phases: preparation, organisation, and reporting. RESULTS: A total of 14 subcategories and 5 main categories emerged, including: Management of Safety and Motor Functioning; Control of Essential Intake and Elimination Processes; Maintenance and Promotion of Psychological and Emotional Well-Being; Preparedness and Knowledge Updating; and Support for the Recovery of Cognitive Functioning. CONCLUSIONS: Caregiving competency among family caregivers of older adults with stroke is multidimensional and extends beyond basic physical care to encompass emotional regulation, situational judgement, continuous learning, and cognitive support. In home-based care, caregivers function as active agents and continuous learners who play a complementary role in the rehabilitation process.