Impact of visual-spatial neglect on stroke functional outcomes, discharge destination and maintenance of improvement post-discharge

This study evaluated basic functional mobility in 25 patients with stroke and visual-spatial neglect during inpatient rehabilitation and early follow-up. Seven patients with neglect and 12 patients without neglect were discharged home and the rest to institutions. Patients without neglect achieved higher outcomes in a shorter time (mean 52 and 79 days respectively). All patients discharged home continued to improve at least up to 5 weeks post-discharge. The patients discharged to institutions achieved lower outcomes overall and quickly deteriorated to admission levels post-discharge. The results inform occupational therapy practice in the areas of assessment, discharge planning, destination and expected functional mobility outcomes in the community.