Presenter
Amber Brown
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Importance: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, and many working-age survivors desire to return to work or school, where participation is closely tied to identity, routine, and well-being. However, structured supports for return to work (RTW) and return to school (RTS) are often limited. Objective: This scoping review aimed to identify strategies and programs that facilitated RTW and RTS among adult stroke survivors. Data Sources: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across four academic databases: Academic Search Complete (EBSCO), Taylor & Francis, PubMed, and SAGE Journals. Study Selection and Data Collection: Peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025 were included if they focused on adults aged 18 years or older with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke and addressed interventions related to RTW or RTS. Fifteen articles met inclusion criteria. Findings: The literature identified key facilitators supporting successful RTW/RTS, including addressing psychosocial needs, cognitive impairments, and fatigue; strengthening communication between survivors and employers through liaison roles; integrating peer support and lived experience; providing education for survivors, families, and employers; and using individualized, occupation-focused strategies with ongoing follow-up. Common barriers included mismatches between job or school demands and abilities, limited flexibility or accommodations, stigma, and insufficient resources specific to RTS.
Faculty Mentor
Monique Dawes, O.T.D., OTR/L, CPAM
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Brown, Amber, "Facilitating Return to Work and School Post-Stroke" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 308.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/308
