The young stroke patient: A need for specialized group support systems

Abstract

Young stroke patients (<65 years of age) account annually for more than one quarter of the people who survive a stroke. This article demonstrates the necessity of providing ongoing stroke support networks for these young stroke survivors and their families and caregivers. Through a support group system, members have the opportunity to access education, socialization, emotional support, and community interaction. The authors utilized a survey format to interview young stroke survivors who belong to support groups and leaders of stroke support groups. The survey results detail common practices of Chicago metropolitan area stroke support groups, their typical formats, and their stated goals. These results document a definitively expressed need for young survivors to participate in peer groups addressing their different set of circumstances.

Key words:

• stroke
• young stroke survivor
• peers
• social support systems
• rehabilitation