Perceived work situation and work ability among persons who are working one year after stroke

To explore how persons who have returned to work perceive their work situation and work ability one year after stroke.

Cross-sectional design.

A total of 88 persons of working age (mean age 52 (standard deviation; SD 8) years, 36% women), with mild to moderate disabilities following stroke, who had returned to work within one year after stroke participated in the study.

A survey including a questionnaire regarding psychological and social factors at work (QPS Nordic) and 4 questions from the Work Ability Index (WAI) was posted to the participants.

According to the QPS Nordic survey, 69-94% of respondents perceived their work duties as well defined, and were content with their work performance. Most participants had good social support at work and at home. Between 51% and 64% of respondents reported that they seldom felt stressed at work, seldom had to work overtime, or that work demands seldom interfered with family life. According to the WAI ≥75% of respondents perceived their work ability as sufficient, and they were rather sure that they would still be working 2 years ahead.

Persons who have returned to work within one year after stroke appear to be content with their work situation and work ability. Appreciation at work, well-defined and meaningful work duties and support seem to be important for a sustainable work situation.