Experiences regarding formal and informal support for significant others of Individuals living with traumatic brain injury during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a disruption in rehabilitation and loss of support systems for significant others of individuals with traumatic brain injury. This study explored experiences regarding support that significant others encountered during the 2020- 2021 period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim: To describe the experiences and views of SOs of individuals with TBI regarding formal and informal support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Seven significant others of individuals with a traumatic brain injury participated in an online semi-structured interview. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software. Results: Support structures for significant others of individuals with a traumatic brain injury were shown to have declined during the pandemic, resulting in increased caregiver burden, stress, financial strain, emotional distress, and breakdowns in relationships. The emerging role of technology as a support was identified as a promising feature to counter these negative effects. Conclusion: Both access to, and continuity of, support structures and services were found to be vital to the well-being not only for individuals with a traumatic brain injury, but also their significant others, particularly during times of crises such as the global COVID-19 pandemic.