Author/Authors :
Amosun, SL University of Cape Town - Faculty of Health Sciences - Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, South Africa , Nyante, GG University of Ghana, Korle Bu Campus - School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences - Department of Physiotherapy, Ghana , Wiredu, EK University of Ghana, Korle Bu Campus - School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Ghana , amosun, s.l. department of health and rehabilitation sciences, South Africa , nyante, g.g. department of physiotherapy,school of allied health sciences,college of health sciences,university of ghana, Ghana , wiredu, e.k. school of allied health sciences,college of health sciences,university of ghana, Ghana
Abstract :
Background: Many stroke survivors do not participate in everyday life activities. Objective: To assess the perceived and experienced restrictions in participation and autonomy among adult stroke survivors in Ghana. Method: The “Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire” (IPAQ) instrument was administered in a survey of 200 adult stroke survivors to assess perceived restrictions in participation and autonomy, followed by in-depth interviews with a sub-sample on the restrictions they experienced in participation. Results: Perceived restrictions in participation were most prevalent in the domains of education and training (3.46±0.79), paid or voluntary work (2.68±0.89), helping and supporting other people (2.20±0.82), and mobility (2.12±0.79). There were significant differences in two domains between survivors who received physiotherapy and those who received traditional rehabilitation. Over half of the survivors also perceived they would encounter severe problems in participation in the domains of paid or voluntary work, mobility, and education and training. The sub-sample of stroke survivors (n=7) mostly experienced restrictions in participation and autonomy in going outside the house, working, and in fulfilling family roles. Conclusion: If these perceptions and experiences are not addressed during rehabilitation, they could further inhibit the full participation and social integration of stroke survivors
