Assessment of quality of life of stroke survivors in a rural area of North Kerala, India

Abstract

Background: With increase in prevalence of stroke and life expectancy the quality of life of stroke survivors assumes importance. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular accidents the survivors continue to experience low Quality of life (QoL) especially in developing countries. The objective of this study was to assess the quality of life among stroke survivors and the prevalence of depression among them.  Methods: Cross-sectional population based study was conducted in a rural area of North Kerala. Stoke survivors were interviewed at home to assess the quality of life and depression status. QOL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), functional status using the modified barthel index (MBI), and mood using the Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI).Results: A total of 40 patients (65.5% men, mean age 70.58±10.7 years) were interviewed.  The mean MBI was 55.25±2.79, and the prevalence of unrecognized depression was 90%. 95 percent of patients needed varying degrees of care for their activities of daily living. The SF-36 scores of the patients were considerably lower than that to that of the general population especially in the areas of role limitation and physical functioning. Depression was more among older subjects and Depressed patients had lower MBI scoresConclusions: A significant proportion of stroke survivors continue to face limitations in their physical activities. In addition, majority have unrecognised depression that affects their QOL adversely.