An Exploratory Study of Young Stroke Survivors' Lived Experiences: A Multi-Methods Study Using Developmental Theory

Young adults make up 10% of strokes that occur in the United States each year. Little research has shown the developmental and occupational disruption as a result of stroke for this population. The objective of this study was to describe young stroke survivors' perceived disruptions using developmental theory. A multiple methods study was conducted with community-dwelling stroke survivors between the ages of 18 and 40 using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measures and qualitative interviews. Five themes were reported from the qualitative data: stroke and health, work and school, romantic relationships, parenting, and other social relationships. PROMIS measure results were not significantly different from the normed population despite challenges revealed during qualitative interviews. Qualitative data showed variations in post-stroke deficits and occupational performance that could not be meaningfully captured by the PROMIS measures alone. Occupational therapy practitioners should use developmental theory to guide their understanding of occupational disruptions in young stroke survivors.