[Unmet Needs in Stroke Aftercare - A Survey of Stroke Survivors in Germany].

Abstract

Surviving stroke has become more common since implementing stroke units in Germany. Little information is available regarding life after stroke and unmet stroke survivors' needs in Germany. This survey is an attempt to close some information gaps.The German Stroke Foundation developed an unmet needs questionnaire in German based on three validated stroke assessment tools covering different domains of life after stroke. The questionnaire was tested and finalized including stroke survivors' expertise. In May 2021, it was sent to more than 3,000 stroke survivors from the German Stroke Foundation database.A total of 979 completed responses could be included in the analysis (response rate 29%). The majority was male (56%) and the average age at the time of stroke was 56 years. Approximately 70% of the respondents reported at least one unmet need. Unmet needs were primary found in the following areas: further rehabilitation measures, remembering and concentrating, further therapeutic measures, and stiffness in arms, hands and/or legs (spasticity).This survey offers a better overview of stroke survivors' needs in Germany. Additional research is needed as unmet needs are not closely monitored in German stroke aftercare. Knowledge of these is important for individualized patient care and a good quality of life for those affected.