Adaptation to stroke: Comparison of spouses of stroke survivors with and without aphasia

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to compare adaptation to a partner's stroke in spouses of aphasic stroke survivors (SASS) and spouses of nonaphasic stroke survivors (SNASS) over time. Cognitive appraisal of the impact of stroke, difficult adaptive tasks, and depression were examined in 15 SASS and 20 SNASS. Data were collected prior to discharge from rehabilitation and at 6 to 10 weeks and 1 year postdischarge. For the entire group, depression scores decreased significantly (p < .05) over time. The reduction in depression was equivalent in both groups. Differences and similarities in patterns of change in appraisal of stroke and in adaptive tasks are discussed.