Haag HL, Caringal M, Sokoloff S, Kontos P, Yoshida K, Colantonio A. Arch. Phys. Med. Rehabil. 2015; 97(2 Suppl): S64-70.
Affiliation
Dept. of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, UHN. Electronic address: angela.colantonio@utoronto.ca.
OBJECTIVES: To explore the experiences of women with non-stroke related ABI to gain greater insight into their general and sex- and gender-specific health and well-being concerns, and to identify areas for future research.
DESIGN: A qualitative pilot study using interpretive description methodology and a sex-and gender-based analysis of data collected through focus groups. SETTING: Community. PARTICIPANTS: A sample of survivors, and formal and informal caregivers of women with ABI (n=16) living in Canada. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Not applicable.
RESULTS: Participants identified significant barriers to achieving optimal health and well-being for women survivors of ABI, including a lack of knowledgeable professionals. We identify three interrelated themes: (1) experiences shaped by gender norms and roles; (2) experiences influenced by physiological phenomena, including perceived hormone imbalances; and (3) experiences surrounding interpersonal relationships and sexuality.
CONCLUSION: Post-ABI care should include education about the influences of sex and gender on health and well-being. Acknowledging the impact of gendered roles, and the broader socio-political context of gender and disability, is important to develop appropriate services and supports following ABI. Incorporating effective communication strategies between client and health care professional can also be a potent rehabilitation strategy.