How lifestyle activities influence the quality of life of stroke patients

Abstract

[Purpose] To clarify how the lifestyle activities of stroke patients living at home influence their quality of life (QOL). [Subjects] Twenty-five stroke patients who were living at home. [Methods] Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted. Questions were asked about the course since stroke onset, present lifestyle, important activities and the reasons for doing them. Analysis was performed using the Modified Grounded Theory Approach. [Results] Lifestyle activities of stroke patients living at home beneficially influenced their QOL through achievement of objectives by continuing activities, and progress with adaptation to disability. [Conclusion] When planning to improve the activities of stroke patients living at home, in addition to an understanding of the circumstances in which the activities will be performed, assessment of the level of adaptation to the disability, and support matching the level are required.