Indicators for Return to Work After Stroke and the Importance of Work for Subjective Well-Being and Life Satisfaction

OBJECTIVES: This study focuses on the continuation of gainful employment after experiencing stroke, addressing factors indicative of readiness for return to work, subjective well-being and life satisfaction. METHODS: The target group comprised 120 patients, studied by means of medical records and postal questionnaires. RESULTS: A total of 41% had returned to work, although there were changes concerning employers, assignments and working hours. Individuals who had returned to work reported a significantly higher level in subjective well-being and life satisfaction. Being able to walk meant the greatest chance of returning to work (odds ratio = 3.98) followed by white-collar worker (odds ratio = 2.99) and having preserved cognitive capacity (odds ratio = 2.64). CONCLUSION: Returning to work after stroke is a major factor for high subjective well-being and life satisfaction. Three factors indicative of readiness for return to work were identified, providing implications for more efficient vocational rehabilitation programmes.