Health-related quality of life of stroke survivors attending the volunteer stroke scheme

Abstract

Background: The Volunteer Stroke Scheme (VSS) provides patients with the opportunity to participate in community-based therapeutic activities and physiotherapy sessions.

Aims: To provide the first profile of VSS attendees in terms of their functioning across the range of recommended WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) outcomes.

Methods: A convenience sample of 41 VSS patients completed standardised measures of cognitive functioning (MMSE), activity levels [Frenchay Activity Index (FAI), and Barthel Index (BI)], depression [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)] and Quality of Life (SF-36).

Results: A total of 37% met the criteria for mild cognitive impairment and 44% met the criteria for clinical depression. Scores on the BI (M = 79.5) and FAI (M = 18.4) incidated limitations in activity levels. Quality of life levels was low.

Conclusions: High levels of psychological morbidity, severe disability across a range of domains and poor quality of life were reported.