Prevalence and predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in Jordan

Returning to work (RTW) is an essential goal for many stroke survivors. Currently, the prevalence of RTW post stroke in developing countries such as Jordan is unknown. Additionally, more research is required to identify factors that contribute to RTW post stroke.

This study aims to (1) determine the prevalence of RTW among stroke survivors in Jordan, and (2) determine the predictors of RTW from a holistic perspective using the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) 3rd edition.

Recruitment was carried out from different Jordanian hospitals and rehabilitation centers. A complete battery of outcome measures was used to reflect OTPF domains. These included outcome measures of occupations, client factors, performance skills, and context and environment. Logistic regression was used to determine factors that predicted RTW.

69 participants were enrolled; 45 Males, 24 females; mean age±SD, 52.2±11.07 years. Only 29% succeeded in RTW during the first year after stroke onset. The highest percentage of RTW was among craft workers (40% ), and those who were self-employed (60% ). Of those who resumed work, 35% returned to their previous work, while 65% needed to make work modifications, or change positions or jobs. Factors that predicted higher rates of RTW were walking speed (Odds ratio (OR)=0.004, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.00-0.55, P < 0.02), as well as absence of environmental restrictions (OR = 21.16, 95% CI = 1.91-233.5, P < 0.013).

The alarming low prevalence of RTW among stroke survivors in Jordan emphasizes the essential need to develop vocational rehabilitation programs. Clinicians should pay attention to enhancing walking abilities and reducing environmental restrictions post stroke, in order to improve the occurrence of RTW.