Washington University School of MedicineJun 19 2024
The transition period is a critical time for stroke survivors who go home after weeks in inpatient rehabilitation. The home environment looks different and is more challenging than a facility outfitted with accommodations. We have found that occupational therapy can make impactful contributions by creating safe spaces that enable stroke survivors to remain independent and in their own homes." The study is available online in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
But another group, one that includes about 25% of stroke patients, has moderate cognitive and motor impairments. These patients - the focus of the clinical trial - typically leave the hospital for inpatient rehabilitation facilities and have the potential to live independently again, explained Stark.
The clinical trial enrolled 183 individuals age 50 and over, as they transitioned to their homes from inpatient rehabilitation facilities. They were randomly assigned to two groups: one that received at-home modifications and self-management skills, and one that received stroke education prevention during four occupational therapy sessions.