Optimal rehabilitation and community integration for family caregivers of stroke patients

Abstract

Stroke is the second most common cause of disability-adjusted life years worldwide, and the incidence of stroke is highest in east Asia.1 In Hong Kong, every year approximately 22,000 people who suffer from stroke are discharged to home or institutional care.2 Risk factors for stroke are mainly associated with three aspects, including factors such as high systolic blood pressure and high level of cholesterol; behavioural factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and diet; and environmental factors such as air pollution. Stroke survivors have three silent needs during rehabilitation: (1) need for rehabilitation of physical, cognitive, psychological and social functions, (2) need to regain an active lifestyle corresponding to their physical and/or mental limitations, and (3) need for environmental adaptation to regain an active lifestyle in a safe, accessible, and empowering environment.3