Experiences of having a stroke in young and middleaged patients : A descriptive review

Abstract: Background: As the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause ofdisability in the world, stroke is more and more common among young people, and itsprevalence and incidence rate are also increasing. However, compared to elderly strokepatients, young and middle-aged patients often play important social and family rolesand face different challenges. In order to provide more targeted care, the experience ofstroke in young and middle-aged people needs to be valued.Aim: The aim of this study is to describe the experiences of middle-aged and youngstroke patients.Design: A descriptive literature review that includes research using qualitative methods.Methods: Qualitative studies on the experience of middle-aged and young strokepatients were retrieved from PubMed via Medline. The authors compared thesimilarities and differences between the results of 11 selected articles and summarizedthem.Results: A total of 11 qualitative articles were included describing the experiences ofmiddle-aged and young stroke patients, which were divided into three categories: (1)Physiological aspects (2) Psychological aspects (3) Social aspects.Conclusion: Young and middle-aged stroke patients exhibit particular physiologicaland psychological characteristics. Medical personnel should fully understand andmaster the characteristics of middle-aged and young stroke patients, and provide themwith rehabilitation and nursing programs suitable for their age.Key words: experiences, qualitative research, stroke, young and middle-aged