Impact of Stroke on Return to Work

2008 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 161-169 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn A. Radford ◽  
Marion F. Walker

AbstractStroke has a marked impact on the ability to return to work. However, the stroke and its residual cognitive, physical and language deficits do not fully explain return-to-work success. While those with very severe deficits are less likely to return to work, and presence of disability is important, other extrinsic and intrinsic factors, such as having a job to go back to, beliefs and attitudes about work, job markets and the benefits system all play an important part. Vocational rehabilitation services developed with the stroke service user in mind are scarce in the United Kingdom. However, recent government interest in vocational rehabilitation and a recognition that evidence to support poststroke vocational rehabilitation is lacking have prompted efforts to develop new vocational rehabilitation services. People with stroke need specialist vocational rehabilitation services delivered by those who have an in-depth understanding of stroke and its effects. Service developers need to acknowledge and address factors that enable or impede return to work after stroke in service design. Research is needed to evaluate vocational rehabilitation interventions aimed specifically at the needs of stroke patients.

2003 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 17-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda E. Young ◽  
Gregory C. Murphy

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) has a dramatic effect on the lives of those affected. As those injured are typically relatively young adults, the interruption to careers and vocational plans is often significant. While return to work following SCI has been well investigated, little is known about the process by which people regain employment post-injury. This investigation aimed to study participants' perceptions regarding the adequacy of the vocational rehabilitation services they received. Data was collected through personal interview with 168 persons with a SCI who were employed at the time of their injury. Participants were asked if they believed they could have been assisted by additional services provided with the aim of facilitating their return-to-work attempts. More than half of the participants believed they would have benefited from additional services. The most commonly requested additional services were: more discussion of vocational options and alternatives, and the timely follow-up of vocational issues. Analysis of subgroup differences indicated that rural-based study participants had clear and precise ideas for how vocational rehabilitation services might be improved.


Author(s):  
Siobhan Leary ◽  
◽  
Joanne Hurford ◽  
Niamh Shanahan ◽  
◽  
...  

Less than half of people return to work following a stroke. For those who do, their return is often complicated by residual 'invisible' symptoms. It is important to ask about work and to provide intervention early in the rehabilitation process. Specialist vocational rehabilitation services can support more complex and long-term interventions, but there is a paucity of service provision which needs to be addressed.


2021 ◽  
pp. 1-21
Author(s):  
Kerrin Watter ◽  
Areti Kennedy ◽  
Vanette McLennan ◽  
Jessica Vogler ◽  
Sarah Jeffery ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction: Following acquired brain injury, the goal of return to work is common. While return to work is supported through different rehabilitation models and services, access to vocational rehabilitation varies within and between countries, and global rates of employment post-injury remain low. The literature identifies outcomes from vocational programs and experiences with return to work, yet little is known about individuals’ perceptions and experiences regarding rehabilitation to support their vocational goals and experiences in attempting to return to work. Method: This qualitative study investigated the experiences of community-living adults with acquired brain injury (n = 8; mean age 45 years; mean time post-injury of 5.5 years) regarding their vocational rehabilitation and return to work. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were conducted, with data analyzed via thematic analysis. Results: Participants identified negative and positive experiences with vocational rehabilitation and return to work. Five overarching themes were identified: addressing vocational rehabilitation in rehabilitation; facilitators of recovery and return to work; the importance and experience of working again; acquired brain injury and identity; and services, systems and policies. Participants also identified five key areas for early vocational rehabilitation services: education; service provision; employer liaison; workplace supports; and peer mentors. Study findings inform current and future practice and service delivery, at a clinical, service and system level.


1978 ◽  
Vol 72 (9) ◽  
pp. 374-376
Author(s):  
Frederick A. Silver

Describes the specialized services the visually impaired diabetic requires in addition to the usual vocational rehabilitation services. The diabetic must be trained in self-administration of insulin, in proper hygiene, and the correct diet must be made available. Counselor and rehab center staff must cooperate in handling the diabetic's unstable physical and visual condition and must be prepared to cope daily with new complications and possible emergencies.


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