Relationship between multidimensional stressors and quality of life in people with stroke

This study explored the impact of intrapersonal (stroke severity, physical dysfunction, and fear of stroke recurrence), interpersonal (loneliness), and extrapersonal (economic status) stressors on the quality of life of people with stroke. A correlational cross-sectional research design was employed. This study was based on Betty Neuman's systems theory. One hundred thirty-nine people with stroke were recruited from 10 hospitals in South Korea. Data were collected from January to February 2020 using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Scheffé test, Pearson's correlation coefficients, Spearman's correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Stroke severity had the strongest association with quality of life among people with stroke, followed by loneliness and fear of stroke recurrence. These variables accounted for approximately 77% of the variance in the quality of life. Stroke severity, loneliness, and fear of stroke recurrence should be systematically monitored to enhance the quality of life in people with stroke. Additionally, a detailed intervention that considers all these stressors must be developed, and its effectiveness must be verified through further research.