Post-stroke functional limitations and changes in use of mode of transport.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the use of different modes of transport and long-term changes among stroke survivors with cognitive functional limitations (CFLs), and to study differences among sub-groups (decreased/ceased vs. unchanged and increased public transport use) regarding physical functional limitations (PFLs), CFLs, depression, and social activity outside home.


METHODS
Survey of 79 individuals living in the community with CFLs post-stroke (mean 26 months). Well-established and study-specific instruments were used capturing the mode of transport use, CFLs (professionally assessed and self-reported), depression symptoms, and PFLs.


RESULTS
Over one third of the participants reported decreased/ceased use of bus and train, among whom more PFLs were found in comparison with those reporting unchanged use and more depression was found in comparison with those showing increased use. There were no sub-group differences concerning occurrence of CFLs and decrease in social activity. The use of own car or motorbike had largely ceased, most often replaced by Special Transportation Service or travelling by private car or taxi. Yet 27% were still frequent car drivers.


CONCLUSIONS
The results indicate considerably affected use of modes of transport after stroke, and higher frequencies of PFLs and symptoms of depression among those with decreased/ceased public transport use.
Wendel
Kerstin
K
Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Sweden. kerstin.wendel@skane.se
Ståhl
Agneta
A
Risberg
Jarl
J
Pessah-Rasmussen
Hélène
H
Iwarsson
Susanne
S
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D014186:Transportation