FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FATIGUE AMONG PEOPLE WHO HAVE RETURNED TO WORK AFTER STROKE: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

Objective: To explore the associations between fatigue impact and (a) personal and stroke -related characteristics, (b) functional impairments and (c) work -related factors among individuals who have returned to work after stroke. Design: A cross-sectional exploratory study. Subjects: 87 working stroke survivors. Methods: This study comprises data from a postal survey targeting work ability and perceived stroke -related consequences 1 year after stroke. Fatigue was evaluated using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Factors associated with having fatigue (FSS total score >= 4) were identified using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Three domain -specific multivariable models and 1 final combined model were created. Results: Fatigue was reported by 43% of the participants. Several factors representing all the investigated domains were associated with fatigue. In the final combined regression model, self -perceived low cognitive functioning, low decision control at work and high quantitative job demands had the strongest independent effects on the odds of having fatigue. Conclusion: Among people who were working 1 year after stroke, fatigue was associated with both personal and stroke -related characteristics as well as functional impairments and work -related factors. This highlights the complex nature of post -stroke fatigue. Fatigue management interventions should have a comprehensive approach and also consider the work environment.