The Impact of Yoga on Quality of Life after Stroke

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Evaluate the effect of an innovative 8 week yoga-based rehabilitation intervention on 1) stroke specific quality of life (QoL) and 2) activity and participation scores in veterans with chronic stroke. Rationale/Background: Declines in Quality of Life (QoL), activity, and participation are common after stroke. Such declines are related to increased mortality, dependence, and costs. As more people live with long-term effects of stroke, it is necessary to develop innovative and evidence-based rehabilitation and occupational therapy interventions to improve QoL, activity, and participation in people with chronic stroke. Methods: • Participants- Participants included veterans with chronic stroke (>9 months) who had completed all occupational and physical therapy after stroke, reported some residual disability or functional loss after stroke; and scored >4 out of 6 on the Short Mini Mental Status Exam. • Setting- All data were collected in the Rehabilitation and Integrative Therapy lab at an urban university. • Design- This was a mixed methods pilot study of an 8 week yoga-based rehabilitation intervention. Data were collected before and after the 8 week yoga intervention. Data collection was completed by a trained research assistant. We used paired t-tests and Wilcoxon non-parametirc tests as appropriate to compare group change in scores over the 8-weeks. • Measure(s)- Measures included the Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale (SSQoL) (high score=better QoL) to measure QoL and activity and participation were measured with the ICF Measure of Participation and Activity (IMPACT) (low score=less limitations in activity and participation). Both are valid and reliable instruments. Qualitative comments were collected during focus groups after the intervention. Supportive qualitative comments regarding improved QoL and activity and participation are included. All qualitative comments were reviewed by two researchers, and exemplar quotes are included.