Volume 9, Issue 1 (Continuously Updated- In press 2026)
Func Disabil J 2026, 9(1): 0-0 |
Back to browse issues page
Download citation:
BibTeX | RIS | EndNote | Medlars | ProCite | Reference Manager | RefWorks
Send citation to:
BibTeX | RIS | EndNote | Medlars | ProCite | Reference Manager | RefWorks
Send citation to:
Ogunlana M O, Govender P, Oyewole O O, Nwosu I B. Adult Stroke Survivors’ Reintegration to Normal Living: A Scoping Review. Func Disabil J 2026; 9 (1)
URL: http://fdj.iums.ac.ir/article-1-348-en.html
URL: http://fdj.iums.ac.ir/article-1-348-en.html
Michael Opeoluwa Ogunlana *1 
, Pragashnie Govender2 , Olufemi Oyeleye Oyewole2 , Ifeoma Blessing Nwosu3
, Pragashnie Govender2 , Olufemi Oyeleye Oyewole2 , Ifeoma Blessing Nwosu3
1- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban South Africa , opeoluwamic@yahoo.com
2- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban South Africa
3- Department of Medical Rehabilitation (Physiotherapy), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State
2- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban South Africa
3- Department of Medical Rehabilitation (Physiotherapy), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State
Abstract: (29 Views)
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability globally. Successful recovery depends on reintegration to normal living (RNL); a synthesis of the drivers of RNL across global contexts remains incomplete.
Objective: To systematically map and synthesise evidence on the determinants, interventions, and outcome measures associated with adult stroke survivors’ reintegration to normal living.
Methods: Guided by the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search of five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Health Source, Web of Science and Scopus) was conducted for studies published between January 1995 and December 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed primary research involving adult stroke survivors (≥18 years) exploring RNL determinants or interventions.
Results: Fifty-five studies met the inclusion criteria (44 quantitative, 10 qualitative, 1 mixed-method). Quantitative synthesis revealed that motor function and mobility were the most frequently identified significant predictors in 36% of quantitative studies. Psychosocial factors, including depression (14%) and social support (18%), were consistently linked to RNL outcomes. The Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) was the predominant measure, utilised by 57% of the included studies. Qualitative synthesis highlighted environmental barriers and the fear of falling as primary inhibitors of social participation. Effective interventions included occupational coaching, family-centred programs, and Telehealth-based self-management.
Conclusions: Return to normal living is governed by a complex interplay of physical and environmental factors. While mobility is a primary driver, emotional health and social support are equally critical.
Clinical Implications: Rehabilitation should transition from impairment-based models to environment-specific strategies. Providers must prioritise gait threshold attainment, address post-stroke depression, and facilitate caregiver involvement to ensure sustainable community reintegration.
Objective: To systematically map and synthesise evidence on the determinants, interventions, and outcome measures associated with adult stroke survivors’ reintegration to normal living.
Methods: Guided by the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search of five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Health Source, Web of Science and Scopus) was conducted for studies published between January 1995 and December 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed primary research involving adult stroke survivors (≥18 years) exploring RNL determinants or interventions.
Results: Fifty-five studies met the inclusion criteria (44 quantitative, 10 qualitative, 1 mixed-method). Quantitative synthesis revealed that motor function and mobility were the most frequently identified significant predictors in 36% of quantitative studies. Psychosocial factors, including depression (14%) and social support (18%), were consistently linked to RNL outcomes. The Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) was the predominant measure, utilised by 57% of the included studies. Qualitative synthesis highlighted environmental barriers and the fear of falling as primary inhibitors of social participation. Effective interventions included occupational coaching, family-centred programs, and Telehealth-based self-management.
Conclusions: Return to normal living is governed by a complex interplay of physical and environmental factors. While mobility is a primary driver, emotional health and social support are equally critical.
Clinical Implications: Rehabilitation should transition from impairment-based models to environment-specific strategies. Providers must prioritise gait threshold attainment, address post-stroke depression, and facilitate caregiver involvement to ensure sustainable community reintegration.
Keywords: Stroke, community reintegration, reintegration to normal living, rehabilitation, stroke survivors, determinants, interventions
Type of Study: Review Article |
Subject:
Rehabilitation management
Received: 2025/12/7 | Accepted: 2026/02/1 | Published: 2026/03/11
Received: 2025/12/7 | Accepted: 2026/02/1 | Published: 2026/03/11
Contact Information
All the work in this journal are licensed under a Creative Commons
ATTRIBUTION-NONCOMMERCIAL-SHAREALIKE 4.0
INTERNATIONAL International License.
Tehran Province, Tehran, District 3, Mirdamad Ave, Nezam Ave, School of Rehabilitation Science
Tel: +98 21 22228051-2 Ext: 180
Fax98 21 22220946
All the work in this journal are licensed under a Creative Commons
ATTRIBUTION-NONCOMMERCIAL-SHAREALIKE 4.0
INTERNATIONAL International License.