Perceptions of Communication and Mobility Recovery Among Stroke Survivors With and Without Aphasia

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychology

Background:

• Self-perceived recovery post-stroke significantly impacts quality of life.
• A disability paradox exists where objective disability and perceived recovery are often misaligned.
• Understanding patient perspectives is crucial for effective stroke rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore stroke survivors' perceptions of communication and mobility recovery.
• To identify facilitators and barriers impacting perceived recovery.
• To examine differences in recovery experiences between participants with aphasia (PWA) and without aphasia (PWOA).

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with 17 adult stroke survivors.
• Interviews conducted 3 months post-inpatient rehabilitation discharge.
• Thematic content analysis of interview transcripts.

Main Results:

• Communication recovery perceptions focused on word-finding and language formulation.
• Mobility recovery perceptions centered on walking ability, assistive device use, and pre-stroke activity participation.
• Facilitators included family involvement, rehabilitation services, personal factors, and self-reliance; barriers included physical, communication, and psychological difficulties.

Conclusions:

• Stroke survivors need high-intensity rehabilitation and early communication partner training.
• Individualized care considering factors beyond stroke impairment is essential.
• Tailoring interventions to address both functional recovery and quality of life is recommended.