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Return to work after mild-to-moderate stroke: work satisfaction and predictive factors
Jet van der Kemp1,2, Willeke J Kruithof1,2, Tanja C W Nijboer1,2,3
1a Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science & Sports, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus , University Medical Centre Utrecht , Utrecht , the Netherlands.
Neuropsychological Rehabilitation
|April 27, 2017
Summary
Many stroke survivors struggle to return to work (RTW). Global cognitive functioning at two months post-stroke is a key predictor of successful RTW one year later.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Occupational Health
Background:
- A significant number of stroke patients face challenges in returning to their previous employment.
- Work status and satisfaction post-stroke vary considerably among individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess return to work (RTW) rates and work satisfaction one year after mild-to-moderate stroke.
- To identify predictors of RTW, including stroke-related, personal, and neuropsychological factors.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 121 patients with mild-to-moderate stroke, employed pre-stroke, were evaluated.
- The Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation-Participation was used to measure work outcomes.
- Neuropsychological assessments, including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, were administered at two months post-stroke.
Main Results:
- Half of the patients were either unemployed (28%) or working reduced hours (22%) one year post-stroke.
- Full-time employed patients reported higher job satisfaction (90%) compared to unemployed patients (36%).
- Global cognitive functioning (r=0.19) and depressive symptoms (r=-0.16) at two months predicted RTW within one year. Global cognitive functioning was the sole independent predictor (11.3% variance, p=0.013).
Conclusions:
- Neuropsychological factors, particularly global cognitive functioning, play a crucial role in the return to work process after stroke.
- Cognitive assessment and targeted rehabilitation strategies should be integrated into post-stroke care to support occupational recovery.
