Where to from here: patients of a day hospital rehabilitation programme perceived needs following stroke

The loss of ability to perform routine activities can result in difficulties for the stroke patient to resume their normal lifestyle. A desire to assist stroke patients after discharge prompted this pilot study into the needs of these patients during and after a program of rehabilitation at a day hospital. A longitudinal approach was used for this pilot study. The aim of the study was to identify patients' needs pertaining to the resumption of their lifestyle, and social and emotional well-being, that emerged during the rehabilitation programme at the day hospital, on its completion and within six months of discharge from the day hospital. The study consisted of three semi-structured interviews with ten stroke patients over a period of nine to twelve months. The semi-structured interview employed open-ended questions to collect information from the participants. The interview process sought to elicit the needs of the participants during their time at the day hospital and then after discharge. It was evident from the interviews that the needs of the participants were primarily the opportunity to practice activities which could improve physical capabilities as the physical limitations placed on the participants by the stroke affected their motivation, morale and general sense of self. The day hospital was instrumental in providing participants with opportunities to learn to 'use' what was functioning, and therefore help the participants improve their physical capabilities. This assisted them to regain their independence. During the interviews participants also spoke about social and emotional needs. While they received some support from interactions with the staff and other patients at the day hospital, participants stated that mostly social and emotional support came from their families. After discharge from the day hospital participants were unable to identify specific needs which they believed the day hospital could provide.