A team of researchers interviewed 17 stroke survivors and 8 caregivers to explore experiences of post-stroke fatigue. They identified four themes:
1) Fatigue is unexpected after stroke and symptoms vary
2) The experience of fatigue is complex and influenced by many different types of factors
3) Learning to adapt and accept fatigue
4) Strategies to manage fatigue and personal approaches to rest
The researchers found that self-management strategies are individualised and include organisation, medications, lifestyle modifications and peer support.
The researchers discuss a number of implications for rehabilitation, including the need for assistance with identifying fatigue triggers, receiving support from family, peers and the stroke community and being provided with simple, practical advice on fatigue.
Strategies suggested as being helpful with fatigue include problem-solving approaches, trial pacing, lifestyle modifications and planning, and finding forms of rest that work for survivors.
Reference: Delbridge, A., Davey, J., Galloway, M., Drummond, A., Lanyon, L., Olley, N., Mason, G., English, C., & Simpson, D.B. (2023). Exploring post-stroke fatigue from the perspective of stroke survivors: what strategies help? A qualitative study. Disability and Rehabilitation. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2023.2266363
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