Stroke Prevention: Education and Barriers for Physical and Occupational Therapists Caring for Older Adults

Abstract

Aims: Describe the frequency of common stroke prevention education topics provided by occupational and physical therapists (OTs/PTs) to individuals at risk for stroke; summarize barriers to such educationMethods: OT/PT professional association subgroups were surveyed regarding prevention education for individuals with risk factors, transient ischemic attack, and stroke, and barriers to such education.Results: A total of 293 therapists completed the survey, 11% OTs and 89% PTs. Education about risk/symptoms (61% of respondents) and activity/exercise (60%) was most commonly provided. The most frequently cited barriers to education were compromised health literacy of the patient/caregiver (62%), lack of interest by the patient/caregiver (51%), and lack of time (46%).Conclusion: The proportion of OTs/PTs providing stroke prevention education appears to be suboptimal. Therapist knowledge, patient characteristics, and institutional constraints were common barriers. Since stroke risk increases with age, reducing risk by identifying and eliminating barriers may help improve health of older adults.