Lived Experiences of Bereaved Parents of Children with Cerebral Palsy
摘要
Despite the global recognition of the shortened life expectancy and heightened mortality risks for children with cerebral palsy, limited research exist on the impact of such loss on parents, particularly in Sub-Saharan African countries like Ghana. Therefore, this study explored the lived experiences of bereaved parents of children with cerebral palsy in the Accra Metropolis, Ghana. Utilizing the qualitative research design, data were gathered from eight bereaved parents through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. The study found that following the loss, the bereaved parents experienced profound grief, with some attributing their child’s death to inadequate healthcare services and delayed intervention. In coping with their grief, parents relied on their religious faith, support groups, and some distraction techniques. Some parents also experienced prolonged grief. Based on the findings of the study, some recommendations were made for policy and practice.