[There are also suitable treatments during the chronic phase following a stroke].
In contrast to the chronic phase, for the acute and rehabilitation phases following a stroke it is sufficiently clear what care is adequate care. Most stroke patients no longer have contact with healthcare professionals in the chronic phase. In this phase, new psychosocial problems may develop. Long (3, 5, 12 and 29 years) post stroke, 4 patients (aged 38-67 years) presented at an outpatient rehabilitation clinic with new complaints: social problems, emotional changes and cognitive impairments. Their relatives (spouses and children) perceived a substantial burden. A short-term outpatient, multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme was offered to them. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model was used to evaluate the health problems in relation to the environmental and personal factors. Psycho-education, learning cognitive strategies, supporting the family, and starting new leisure activities were important parts of the rehabilitation programme to increase participation and quality of life. The chronic phase following a stroke is not a stable phase and in this phase, rehabilitation interventions can be helpful too and should therefore be offered.
Visser-Meily
J M
JM
Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, afd. Revalidatie en Sportgeneeskunde, Postbus 85.500, 3508 GA Utrecht. j.m.a.visser-meily@umcutrecht.nl
van Heugten
C M
CM
Schepers
V P M
VP
van den Bos
G A M
GA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012944:Social Support; D020521:Stroke / Q000523:psychology*; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D013997:Time Factors