THE LEVEL OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG STROKE SURVIVORS IN THAILAND : A QUANTITATIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract: Background: Stroke is one of the largest health concerns, and the number of stroke cases is increasing globally, especially in development countries. Stroke can lead to permanent disability or death, and physical therapy is vital in order to regain functions. Patients’ mental condition post-stroke is a strong predictor of the rehabilitation progress. Physical activity (PA) and exercise has shown positive effects on a biopsychosocial level and may improve patients’functionality. Objective: To investigate the level of PA, health related quality of life (HRQoL), and to clarify the relation between PA and HRQoL in people with stroke in Thailand. A secondary objective was to investigate the correlation between PA and depression in the same population. Method: PA was monitored objectively with accelerometer for 7 consecutive days, and subjectively with the Physical Activity Scale for People with Physical Disabilities. HRQoL and level of depression was assessed by index-score and Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS) from the EuroQoL 5-Dimension 5-Level questionnaire.  Results: The group was not physically active but experienced a high HRQoL. A significant positive correlation was found between HRQoL assessed with EQ-VAS and PA assessed both subjectively and objectively. No correlation was found between PA and depression. Conclusion: PA was associated with a higher HRQoL in stroke patients in Thailand. The participants showed an overall low PA compared to WHO guidelines, and an overall high HRQoL, including low depression. Stroke patients in Thailand should be encouraged to be more physically active, in order to gain the health benefits that PA can give.