Personal experiences of returning to work following stroke: An exploratory study

OBJECTIVE: A quarter of stroke survivors are of working age; information about the impact of stroke on those who are working is limited. We investigated the expectations and experiences of stroke survivors in relationship to return to work. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS: This qualitative tudy used semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 13 patients working at onset of cerebrovascular disease. Interviews were conducted between 3 months and 8 years post stroke in order to gain an insight into both individuals' initial expectations and their actual experiences in relation to return to work. RESULTS: Full thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was undertaken, findings reported focus on the data relating to work. Work related sub-themes included continuing symptoms affecting plans to return to work, experiences of returning to work (including uncertainty over timing of return and fears about coping at work), changing job or career and the emotional impact of enforced retirement. CONCLUSION: Information provision, return to work support systems and potential changes in life roles are important aspects to consider when assessing the impact of stroke and managing the consequences in people of working age.