An exploration of participation in leisure activities post-stroke

Aim: The purpose of this study was to illuminate the experiences of older adults' return to leisure activities, following rehabilitation, post-stroke. Method: A phenomenological approach was used to explore the experiences of re-engaging in leisure occupations post-stroke. In-depth interviews were conducted with five community-dwelling individuals (three men, two women) aged 68-74 years who had experienced a stroke in the past year. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Four themes emerged: (i) Re-engaging in leisure activities, (ii) acceptance of physical limitations post-stroke, (iii) gratitude for help and support and (iv) looking forward to the future. Conclusion: Implications revealed that post-stroke interventions need a more occupation-focussed approach, including return to leisure at an earlier stage of stroke rehabilitation.