Long-term outcome in stroke survivors after discharge from a convalescent rehabilitation ward

The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term mortality, daily living activities, social activity, and symptoms of depression, in post-stroke patients discharged to their homes from a convalescent rehabilitation ward, and to determine the relationship between demographic variables and long-term outcome.

This study included 252 consecutive stroke patients (140 men; mean age, 72.4 ± 10.8 years) who had been admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward for inpatient rehabilitation. Follow-up assessment was made by postal questionnaire for up to >1 year after discharge, and included the modified Rankin scale, Frenchay activities index (FAI), and Geriatric Depression Scale.

Of the 192 respondents (76.2%), 160 (83.3%) were living at home. Eighty-three (51.8%) were independent. Cumulative post-stroke mortality at 1 and 3 years was 3.7% and 19.4%, respectively.Mean total FAI score was 26.5 ± 10.9, suggesting that social inactivity was common. The estimated prevalence of depression was 21.6%. Coronary artery disease and motor functional independence measures were significantly associated with mortality, whereas age, recurrent stroke, severity of paralysis, and motor functional independence measures were significant predictors of independence. In the cross-sectional logistic model, depression symptoms were inversely associated with FAI score.

The mortality rate of patients discharged to their home following inpatient rehabilitation is relatively low. Social inactivity and depression symptoms, however, remain common during the chronic phase, and the severity of depression and restriction of participation were interrelated.