Perceived Autonomy of Participation among Stroke Survivors - A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives Globally stroke results in significant negative consequences in relation to physical functions social participation and overall quality of life. It may undesirably affect the perception of the patient in terms of his autonomy and participation. This study was conducted with an objective to determine the perceived autonomy of participation among stroke survivors.Method The study was approved by Institutional Ethics Committee of SDMCMSH. Community dwelling stroke survivors in sub-acute or chronic phases were recruited for participation in the study as per the study criteria. The patientsrsquo responses to Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire IPAQ were used to understand their perception of autonomy and participation.Results Among 105 81- male and 24- female participants who responded to the IPAQ 32.38 reported lsquovery goodrsquo perception of participation while 48.57 reported lsquogood-fairrsquo participation and 19.05 reported lsquopoor-very poorrsquo participation. Mean IPAQ score comparison using Kruskal Wallis ANOVA was significantly better among patients who reported to be independent for self-care in comparison to other categories p 0.0460. Mann-Whitney U test comparing IPAQ scores showed significantly good perception of autonomy in Return-to-work category p 0.0001.Conclusion This study concluded that majority of the study population perceived their participation and autonomy both overall and within all domains as assessed on Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire IPAQ as lsquovery goodrsquo to lsquofairrsquo. Stroke survivors who returned to work and were independent for self-care reported best perception of autonomy.nbsp