Abstract
Introduction: Neuro-developmental delays (NDD) pose significant challenges for children and families, particularly in low-income settings with limited healthcare resources. Home rehabilitation programmes are essential in managing NDD, but the involvement of fathers and siblings remains under-researched. This study seeks to investigate the perspectives of rehabilitation professionals on the involvement of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation programmes for children with NDD in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Participants and Methods: This qualitative exploratory study was conducted with 18 rehabilitation professionals from United Bulawayo Hospitals and Mpilo Central Hospital. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs), which were transcribed, coded, and thematically analysed. The analysis focused on identifying themes related to the involvement of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation for children with NDD.
Results: Rehabilitation professionals emphasized the crucial role of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation. Fathers were noted for providing emotional support and financial stability, while siblings contributed through social interactions and play therapy. Barriers to involvement included cultural norms, time constraints for fathers, and the emotional burden and limited understanding in siblings. These challenges highlighted the need for targeted interventions to better support family involvement in home rehabilitation programmes.
Conclusion: Rehabilitation professionals believe that fathers and siblings play a vital role in the success of home rehabilitation for children with NDD. Overcoming cultural and practical barriers is essential to enhancing family participation. The study underscores the need for policy development and inclusive care models that engage all family members, particularly in low-income settings.
Participants and Methods: This qualitative exploratory study was conducted with 18 rehabilitation professionals from United Bulawayo Hospitals and Mpilo Central Hospital. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs), which were transcribed, coded, and thematically analysed. The analysis focused on identifying themes related to the involvement of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation for children with NDD.
Results: Rehabilitation professionals emphasized the crucial role of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation. Fathers were noted for providing emotional support and financial stability, while siblings contributed through social interactions and play therapy. Barriers to involvement included cultural norms, time constraints for fathers, and the emotional burden and limited understanding in siblings. These challenges highlighted the need for targeted interventions to better support family involvement in home rehabilitation programmes.
Conclusion: Rehabilitation professionals believe that fathers and siblings play a vital role in the success of home rehabilitation for children with NDD. Overcoming cultural and practical barriers is essential to enhancing family participation. The study underscores the need for policy development and inclusive care models that engage all family members, particularly in low-income settings.
| Original language | English |
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| Pages | 58 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 16 Jun 2025 |
| Event | 37th annual meeting of the European Academy of Childhood-onset Disability (EACD) and 4th Triennial meeting of the International Alliance of Academies of Childhood Disability (IAACD) - Heidelberg, Germany Duration: 24 Jun 2025 → 28 Jun 2025 |
Conference
| Conference | 37th annual meeting of the European Academy of Childhood-onset Disability (EACD) and 4th Triennial meeting of the International Alliance of Academies of Childhood Disability (IAACD) |
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| Country/Territory | Germany |
| City | Heidelberg |
| Period | 24/06/25 → 28/06/25 |