A survey of the long term outcome of elderly stroke survivors and the needs of their carers

CK Mok, ST Lau, PM Leung, SY Wong, W Siu, SY Au
Department of Geriatrics, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong

A survey was conducted to assess the long term outcome of 60 elderly stroke survivors (mean age, 81.7 years). Of these patients, 48% died within one year of discharge and 79% of the mortality occurred in the first six months. Patients discharged to institutions after the initial stroke had a significantly higher risk of death in one year (relative risk=1.47) compared with those who were discharged home. For those who survived for a mean period of 18.6months, 72% (21/29) were institutionalised. This group had significantly worse functional status and mobility compared with those who were living at home. The caring of elderly stroke patients was considered a heavy burden for most carers at home or in institutions and the need for medical and social support was great.

Hong Kong Med J 1997;3:158-62

Key words: Survival rate, cerebrovascular disorders; Aged; Caregivers Outcome Assessment (health care)