Health and functioning in a stroke population five years after first incidence

Purpose: To isolate characteristics of a stroke population five years after first stroke, focusing on functioning and health. Methods: The subjects in the present study were identified in a computerized National Bureau of Health Register over a six month period in 2003 in a well-defined area of 353,284 inhabitants. Results: Survival rate five years after first stroke was 52%. As regards functioning 50% of the group were able to look after own affairs. Thirty-one percent reported themselves as being moderately disabled. Seventeen percent had moderate to severe disability. In the responding group 53% below 65 years of age were disability pensioners. Half of the responding group had suffered a further stroke or another severe illness during the previous five years. There was a positive correlation between functioning and health. Conclusion: Stroke survivors cannot be seen as a homogenous group as regard to functioning and health five years after the incidence. It is recommended that professionals identify the stroke individual's level of functioning before rehabilitation is concluded, and that they give stroke individuals with moderate to severe disabilities a well-considered and individualized follow-up. Professionals should be more aware of the working potential of stroke survivors below 65 years.