Adjusting to Life after Stroke: A Theoretical Model Based on Survivor Experience (original) (raw)

Stroke is a major health and disability issue in Australia. Despite recent advances in acute stroke management, a large number of people continue to live with the ongoing impact of stroke. Many experience difficulty engaging in the activities they need, want, or are expected to engage in – what occupational therapists term occupations. Occupational therapists play a key role in supporting individuals to overcome occupational challenges to live meaningful lives and re-integrate into the community after a stroke. To ensure they deliver theory-driven, evidence-informed and client-focused services, it is critical that occupational therapists understand stroke recovery, not just from a biomedical perspective, but also, and, perhaps more importantly, from an occupational and client perspective. Qualitative research can provide this insight into the individual's experience of adjustment after stroke, and offer a lens through which to critically review clinical guidelines. Whilst each i...