Return to work after stroke: the role of cognitive deficits

Stroke is recognised as a leading cause of the global disease burden. In high-income countries, 20% of strokes occur in people of working age, many of whom are in paid employment.1 This figure is probably much higher in low-to middle-income countries where the average age of onset of stroke is lower. Employment is one of the most important social roles that a person fulfills and not working has negative impacts on one's overall quality of life, health, finances, social isolation and self-efficacy. Because younger adults are responsible for generating income and supporting family members, returning to work is a key goal in the recovery from disabling illnesses such as stroke. Given improved survival after stroke and an ageing population and workforce, the cost of stroke are expected to further increase, with lost productivity projected to be …