Screening for Post-Stroke Depression and Cognitive Impairment at Baseline Predicts Long-Term Patient-Centered Outcomes After Stroke

Abstract

Background: Independence and reintegration into community roles are important patient-centered outcomes after stroke. Depression and cognitive impairment are common post-stroke conditions that may impair long-term function even years after a stroke. However, screening for these post-stroke comorbidities remains infrequent in stroke prevention clinics and the utility of this screening for predicting long-term higher-level function has not been evaluated. Aims: To evaluate the ability of a validated brief Depression, Obstructive sleep apnea, and Cognitive impairment screen (DOC screen) to predict long-term (2-3 years after stroke) community participation and independence in instrumental activities of daily living post stroke. Methods: One hundred twenty-four patients (mean age, 66.3 [standard deviation = 15.7], 52.4% male) completed baseline depression and cognitive impairment screening at first stroke clinic visit, and telephone interviews 2 to 3 years post stroke to assess community independence (Frenchay Activities Index [FAI]) and participation (Reintegration to Normal Living Index [RNLI]). A subset of these patients also consented to complete detailed neuropsychological testing at baseline. Univariate and multivariate linear (FAI) and logistic (RNLI) regression analyses were used to determine the individual relationship between baseline data (predictors) and follow-up scores. Results: Older age (β = −0.17, P =.001), greater stroke severity (β = 1.84, P =.015), more depressive (β = −2.41, P =.023), and cognitive (β = −2.15, P =.046) symptoms independently predicted poor instrumental activity (R 2 =.27; P