Background: Patients with stroke experience a number of environmental
barriers, limiting their re-integration. Information regarding the
barriers experienced by patients with stroke in a specific setting such
as the Musanze district in Rwanda would assist with the development of
rehabilitation programmes that would take into consideration the
barriers experienced by the clients. Objective: To explore the barriers
experienced by patients with stroke residing in Musanze District.
Methods: In-depth face-to-face interviews were used to gather the data
which were analysed using a thematic approach. Results: Three major
themes of the environmental barriers experienced by the study
participants that emerged were social, attitudinal and physical
barriers. Sub-themes that arose within the social barriers theme
included lack of social support and inaccessible physiotherapy
services. In terms of attitudinal barriers, the participants reported
negative attitudes of others towards them. The sub themes related to
physical barriers as described by the participants were inaccessible
pathways and toilets. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight
the need for interventions that include awareness and education of
communities about disability and advocating for accessible services and
physical structures for persons with disabilities