Erik Skoglund, Emma Westerlind, Hanna C. Persson, Katharina S. Sunnerhagen
Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Göteborg, Sweden
DOI: 10.2340/16501977-2595

Objective: To investigate different aspects of self-perceived impact of stroke 1 and 5 years after stroke onset, with a focus on self-perceived participation.
Design: Longitudinal cohort study.
Participants: Forty-five persons diagnosed with first-time stroke included in the Stroke Arm Longitudinal study at University of Gothenburg (SALGOT).
Methods: Participants responded to the Stroke Impact Scale, the Impact on Participation and Autonomy and the European Quality of Life 5 dimensions at 1 year and 5 years post-stroke. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to check for differences in changes over time between groups.
Results: In general, the perceived consequences of stroke were more severe after 5 years compared with at 1 year. Strength, emotion and participation were the areas most affected, along with restrictions in social life and autonomy indoors. Global disability (mRS) was moderately correlated with quality of life.
Conclusion: The perceived impact of stroke becomes more prominent with time, even for persons with mild-to-moderate stroke. This study highlights the need for long-term support for persons with stroke.

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability world-wide. Persons with stroke experience many types of consequences. This study investigated the self-perceived consequences of stroke at 1 and 5 years post-stroke. Forty-five people participated in face-to-face interviews at 1 year and responded to surveys via regular mail after 5 years. The results show that the perceived impact of stroke becomes more severe with time, even for persons with mild-to-moderate stroke. We conclude that persons with stroke are in need of continuous support.