The Codman Award Paper: quality of life in stroke survivors and their spouses: predictors and clinical implications for rehabilitation teams.

Abstract

Valuing and promoting quality of life after stroke is an essential component of practice for neuroscience nurses and other clinicians working in rehabilitation settings. Although some research studies have addressed factors that contribute to quality of life post-stroke, the majority of studies have focused on stroke survivors, not their spouses. Additionally, little attention has been given to family strengths associated with quality of life. In this paper, the investigator presents the findings of a recent descriptive, correlational study that was based on the conceptual framework of the Developmental Model of Health and Nursing (DMHN) (Allen & Warner, 2002; Ford-Gilboe, 2002a). This was the first study to examine the relationships among hope, family health promoting activity, and quality of life. The study was conducted with a convenience sample of 40 stroke survivors with moderate to severe functional impairments and their spouses. Participants had completed a rehabilitation program. Spouses' employment status, number of supports, and functional independence at discharge were common predictors of quality of life for both partners. However, hope was found to contribute to quality of life of stroke survivors, but not their spouses. The different patterns of findings are discussed and the key implications for clinical and research practice are addressed.