So far we have considered the impact of communication difficulties on Thomasz; now let’s consider how they have affected Catriona …
It is clear that Thomasz was not aware of the impact his communication difficulties were having on Catriona. It will be helpful for them to explore their different feelings further. Strong relationships and an ability to work to address challenges are key factors for living successfully with these difficulties.
It is really important to acknowledge the huge impact that the sudden onset of a communication difficulty can have on all family members, who will commonly undergo emotional, relationship, social and financial disruption. These need to be recognised by the health and care team, who should then make sure the appropriate support is .
Questions:
Qu: “How do you think Catriona is coping with your communication difficulty?”
(Thomasz): “It doesn’t affect her. It’s my problem”
(Catriona): “I worry about him”
Qu: “What do you think is the hardest thing for her since the onset of your communication difficulties?”
(Thomasz): “Paying the bills”
(Catriona): “Not socialising with friends as much”
Qu: “How do you think your relationship has changed since the onset of your communication difficulty?”
(Thomasz): “Catriona feels embarrassed that I sound drunk”
(Catriona): “I’m quite overprotective”
Qu “What do you think would help Catriona the most to cope with the changes in your relationship since the stroke?”
(Thomasz): “Spending more time at home relaxing”
(Catriona): “To be able to access specific carer support”
Qu: “What does Catriona feel about the future?”
(Thomasz): “We just need to take it one day at a time”
(Catriona): “I wonder how we will be able to adjust to the changes”
It is interesting to see that Thomasz wasn’t aware of how Catriona was feeling and the degree of impact the communication difficulty was having on her.
It is really important to acknowledge the huge impact that the sudden onset of a communication difficulty can have on the whole family. The family members will commonly undergo emotional, relational and social disruptions. It is important that these are recognised and the appropriate support is given to both Thomasz and Catriona. This can include signposting Thomasz to peer support in his local area and Catriona to the stroke 4 carers website.
Page last reviewed: 18 Jan 2021
