Uncertainties in Occupational Participation Among Acute Stroke Survivors: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Stroke causes diminished occupational participation from the acute phase, considerably impacting quality of life. We aimed to explore the experiences of diminished occupational participation among acute stroke survivors. We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis on interviews with 12 participants within 3 wk post-onset. Results identified four themes: (1) being at the mercy of uncertain physical recovery, (2) resistance to role loss, (3) disconnection from daily life, and (4) awareness of supporters. This study offers new insights for developing a rehabilitation approach that integrates an occupational perspective from the acute phase. It is important to addresses not only physical recovery, but also prioritize the restoration of meaningful occupational engagement, personal identity reconstruction, and continuity in daily life disrupted by stroke by closely monitoring their fluctuating emotions and promoting awareness of supporters may be effective strategies for client-centred occupational therapy in the acute phase.