A controlled study analyzing the temporal activity patterns of individuals with stroke compared to healthy adults

Abstract

Introduction The understanding of the temporal pattern of individuals can add a wider perspective to interventions. Therefore, the present study is aimed toward analysis of the temporal activity pattern of individuals with stroke compared to healthy adults. Method This study is a prospective, case–control, analytic research study. The study sample comprised 50 individuals with stroke and 50 individuals without disease, for 80% power with a 5% type 1 error. The Modified Occupational Questionnaire was administered to assess the temporal activity pattern. Individuals identified the activities performed at each hour of the day and data was analyzed. Results The temporal activity pattern of individuals with stroke differed from healthy controls; education and play activities were not part of stroke participants’ daily routines. Also, participation in work, leisure and social participation activities was significantly different for people with stroke compared to healthy controls ( p < 0.01 ). The study group assigned very low values to the activities; the value perceived by individuals differed significantly between groups ( p < 0.01 ). Conclusion Clinicians are in a position to enable individuals’ time use and help to engage them in meaningful activity. Individuals with stroke may benefit from a program focusing on the temporal aspect of activities.