Abstract: Submission #238

Abstract Stroke has become a prevalent medical challenge in South Africa. While it often leads to mortality, survivors frequently face lasting disabilities and require assistance from caregivers. Many stroke survivors rely on family members and loved ones, who are often informal caregivers lacking formal training. Although there’s substantial research on caregiving, specific studies on informal caregivers of stroke survivors are limited. This study aims to provide insights into their experiences and suggests interventions to improve informal caregivers' well-being and care quality for stroke survivors. Using a qualitative methodology, the research involved face-to-face interviews with four informal caregivers, one male and three females aged 25-35, from the Utah village in Mpumalanga. Key findings revealed emotional, physical, financial, and social challenges. The study recommends training and information-sharing sessions for informal caregivers, supported by the Department of Health, along with psychosocial support provided by the Department of Social Development.