Functional status of stroke patients in long-term care--a basis for development of rehabilitation and care

Thirty persons who had remained in long-term care for one year or more post-stroke were assessed with respect to motor function, cognitive, perceptual, and communication ability and ADL capacity. Before the stroke they had lived an independent life, although 40% suffered from cardiovascular disease. At the follow-up, all patients had severe impairments due to the brain damage. None could walk or stand independently, ten could not call for help or attract attention in any way, and 13 could not take part in a conversation. Eleven patients had severe pain in spite of treatment with analgesics. Pain treatment and training methods that can reduce dependence and improve the quality of life for patients like these need to be developed. More appropriate assessment instruments for this patient group have to be constructed to make evaluation of training and care possible.