Work-related Experiences of Persons with Stroke after Completing Rehabilitation Service from A Selected Rehabilitation Center

Abstract

Background: Stroke, a leading cause of death and disability around the world, causes physical, cognitive, and emotional difficulties. Returning to work after a stroke is essential for personal well-being, but it becomes difficult because of a variety of variables, such as discrimination and fatigue. Occupational rehabilitation services focusing on early intervention and coordination between health experts and employers are essential for improving return-to-work outcomes. Long-term support is needed to address the persistent obstacles that persons with stroke face in the workplace. Purpose: To explore the work-related experiences of persons with stroke after completing rehabilitation service from a selected rehabilitation center. Method: This study was conducted using a qualitative research design with a phenomenological approach, including nine participants (one female, eight male) following the purposive sampling method in this study. The researcher would collect data from CRP (Savar, Mirpur) and select a face-to-face interviewer for data collection using a semi-structured interview guide. The researcher asked participants to discuss their work-related experiences after stroke. The researcher listened to the interviews several times using the phone recorder, and then the interview data was transcribed in Bangla. Then the data was analyzed by thematic analysis. Results: The findings explored in-depth information about the work-related experiences of stroke patients. Six themes were identified in Variation in Post-stroke Job, Factors influencing return to work after stroke, feelings of rejoining the job after stroke, relationship with coworkers, Barriers at Workplace, and Adaptation process in the workplace after stroke. The experience of returning to work after a stroke was not good because their physical problems restricted them from working as before. The main Barriers to negative experiences after returning to work are stigma, less work effort, poor functional use of the affected arm, poor communication skills, and working slowly. Conclusions: This study investigated the experiences of individuals returning to work after a stroke, finding a complex environment of problems and reasons. Despite physical limitations and social obstacles, persons with stroke maintain dedication, motivated by familial responsibilities, financial requirements, and a commitment to their professional roles. Their return to work highlights the significance of developing full support systems and workplace accommodations to ensure effective reintegration. Reducing stigma and raising awareness are critical steps toward creating inclusive work settings that support the well-being and productivity of people with stroke. Keywords: Stroke, Employment, Return to work, Rehabilitation