Quality of life of stroke survivors: a research synthesis

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and a major cause of disability in the United States. Individuals experiencing a completed stroke are faced with a multitude of challenges to restore their highest quality of life within the limitations of residual impairment. This research synthesis provides a summary of previous research on quality of life for stroke survivors. Research studies for inclusion in the review were identified by conducting a search of computerized databases through August 2000 and by using the ancestry method of reviewing reference lists from relevant publications. Thirty-nine studies were identified that focused on stroke survivors' quality of life during the recovery process. Stroke survivors' overall quality of life varied based on the country where the study was implemented. Variables positively associated with stroke survivors' quality of life were independence with activities of daily living, increased functional ability, social support, and healthcare resources. Variables negatively associated with stroke survivors' quality of life were psychological impairment, severity of impairment, severity of aphasia, inappropriate reactions to illness and pessimism, and inability to return to work. Specifically, 22% to 73% of the variance in stroke survivors' quality of life was primarily explained by presence of depression; functional ability, especially the upper extremities; and socialization, in particular, leisure activities. Implications for professional nursing practice to enhance stroke survivors' quality of life include encouraging independence, managing depression, and fostering interpersonal relationships. Areas for future research include longitudinal studies, rigorous psychometric assessment of quality of life instruments, and intervention studies.