The need for whole-person care in managing community dwelling older stroke survivors

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, disproportionately affecting older adults. Advances in acute stroke management have reduced mortality but led to a growing population of survivors living with long-term disability. The burden and impact of stroke extend beyond neurological impairment. Physically, older survivors experience functional decline, loss of independence in activities of daily living, and heightened need for environmental or institutional support. Psychologically and socially, stroke survivors face high rates of depression, anxiety, apathy, and fatigue, compounded by social isolation and caregiver burden. Spiritual distress is common yet often overlooked, particularly among those previously active in their faith communities who struggle with meaning, guilt, and disengagement after disability. Current care models require a more structured approach to whole-person care in stroke recovery that recognizes and addresses the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual/existential dimensions of well-being. Multidimensional validated assessment tools are needed to assess and promptly identify challenges to holistic recovery for stroke survivors. Multidisciplinary teams including physicians, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, psychologists, social workers, chaplains, and palliative care providers are essential to address the full range of patient and caregiver needs while potentially addressing long-term disability, enhancing quality of life, and preserving dignity for stroke survivors and their caregivers. By implementing such approaches, healthcare systems can more effectively meet the complex needs of this vulnerable population.