Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate which neurological impairments on discharge from rehabilitation services are associated with a worse outcome in terms of health related-quality of life (HRQoL) one year after stroke. Methods. We enrolled 528 first-time stroke patients in a multicenter observational study involving 18 Italian inpatients rehabilitation centers. Neurological impairment-related factors, socio-demographic and general clinical variables and process indicators were considered independent variables at discharge. Outcome was represented by the following dependent variables of HRQoL: EuroQoL-5D questionnaire (5D-EQoL) and its derived index (Eq-Index) and a Visual Analogue Score (QoLVAS). Results. The strongest predictors of lower HRQoL were an incomplete limbs motor recovery. An incomplete lower limb motor recovery was associated with a lower HRQoL only in the "mobility" domains, whereas a incomplete upper limb motor recovery could predict a lower HRQoL in all domains except "mobility". Regarding cognitive impairments, the presence of neglect at discharge was associated with a lower HRQoL in "self-care", "pain-discomfort" and "anxiety- depression". Female gender, presence of urinary catheter seemed to exert a much lesser role in predicting HRQoL. Conclusion. The results of this study suggest that upper limb motor impairments may have a detrimental impact on the patient's perceived HRQoL one year after stroke.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 389-399 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine |
Volume | 46 |
Issue number | 3 |
Publication status | Published - Sep 2010 |
Keywords
- Quality of life
- Rehabilitation
- Stroke
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Rehabilitation
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation