Relationship between post-stroke functional recovery and quality of life among Nigerian stroke survivors

This study explored relationship between post-stroke functional recovery and QoL among Nigeria SSv with first-ever stroke.

This Study involved 65 (33 males and 32 females) individuals diagnosed of first-ever episode of stroke in the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. The National Stroke Severity scale was used to assess their stroke sequeles. Their functional performance and QoL was assessed using the combination of the standard values of Barthel Index and Frenchay Activities Index, and the Stroke-Specific QoL questionnaire respectively. They were assessed at 14 days and fortnightly for 12 months post-stroke. Data were analysed using the Pearson's Moment Correlation and paired t-test at p=0.05.

Fifty-five (84.61%) out of the 65 SSv completed this study while 10 (15.39%) died. Participants' age was 58.1±15.7 years with majority (90.6%) of them between 40 years and 79 years. Mean QoL score increased significantly at day 14-day through 6-month and non-significantly through 12-month post-stroke. Mean functional performance significantly increased from 3.2±2.1 at day 14 to 66.3±14.2 at 6-month but non-significantly from 6-month to 76.14±12.1 at 12-month post-stroke. Their functional recovery had direct positive relationship with their QoL scores during the 12 months follow-up.

Stroke has negative impact on both the functional performance and quality of life of stroke survivors. Quality of life of stroke survivors increases with improvement in functional recovery.