Health care professionals’ experiences, understandings and perspectives of clients with Korsakoff Syndrome

Hughes, Aisling and Murray, Craig and Jackson-Roe, Katie (2026) Health care professionals’ experiences, understandings and perspectives of clients with Korsakoff Syndrome. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

Text (Aisling Thesis 2026)
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Abstract

This thesis comprises a literature review, an empirical paper, and a critical appraisal. The literature review synthesised qualitative research to explore experiences of acquired brain injury among people experiencing homelessness and the perspectives of professionals supporting them. Six themes were identified relating to communication, relationships, structural barriers, education, stigma, and access to resources, highlighting the interaction between cognitive, relational, and systemic factors shaping engagement with support. The empirical paper explored healthcare professionals’ experiences of working with individuals with Korsakoff Syndrome using qualitative methods. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes were developed: the importance of formal procedures, recognising patients as people first, navigating systemic challenges, and gaps in understanding contributing to gaps in care. Findings indicated that systemic barriers, limited resources, and insufficient training impact the delivery of best-practice care. The critical appraisal reflects on methodological, ethical, and practical aspects of the research process, including the influence of researcher identity. Overall, the thesis highlights the importance of trauma-informed, integrated, and person-centred approaches in supporting marginalised populations with complex neuropsychological needs.