Client-centred self-care intervention after stroke: a feasibility study

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of client-centred, self-care intervention (CCSCI) on (i) activities of daily living (ADL) and life satisfaction in persons with stroke, (ii) caregiver burden, use of informal care and home-help services, and (iii) the feasibility of the study design. Design: Randomized controlled trial, a pilot study of an intervention group (IG) receiving CCSCI or a control group (CG) receiving ordinary training. Subjects: Forty persons with stroke (IG n = 19, CG n = 21) were included: non-demented, able to follow instructions, dependent regarding self-care and referred for rehabilitation, and their significant others (IG n = 8, CG n = 8). Method: Data were collected at baseline and three months later using established instruments regarding ADL, life satisfaction, caregiver burden, and use of health services from medical records, the county register, and by interviews. Results: There were no differences in ADL, life satisfaction, caregiver burden, or use of services at three months. Both groups improved significantly and clinically important improvements were achieved by 86% in IG and 63% in CG. Conclusion: The CCSCI appears promising for the recapturing of self-care after stroke and a large randomized controlled trial is warranted, in which the present design and methods with some modification will be feasible.