Falling Through the Cracks: A Literature Review to Understand the Reality of Mild Stroke Survivors

Abstract

Purpose: To review the existing literature on mild stroke, its consequences for patients and families, and the effectiveness of rehabilitation services targeting mild stroke. Method: A systematic search was conducted on Ovid (EMBASE and MEDLINE, 1950–2008), PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane (to 4th quarter 2008). Articles had to be written in French or English. The term “mild stroke” was combined with a variety of key words. Titles, abstracts, and results sections were screened, and the sample had to be composed of >50% mild stroke. Two reviewers were involved in the selection process to ensure the research was reproducible and that all the literature was screened properly. Results: Thirteen articles meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were found. Mild stroke survivors may present impairments that do not interfere with basic activities of daily living but do affect performance of complex tasks. The consequences for families remain unknown. Home interventions were found to help patients maximize their functions and reduce stroke sequelae. Conclusion: The majority of mild stroke survivors are sent home without referral to rehabilitation services although they present deficits that, if not addressed, can lead to deconditioning and impede community reengagement. The impact of mild stroke on families needs to be studied.

Keywords:

• families
• impairments
• mild stroke
• participation
• rehabilitation
• review