Multivariate analysis of improvement and outcome following stroke rehabilitation.

This study documented the status of 432 patients and characteristics of functional improvements and outcomes achieved by 163 patients who participated in comprehensive stroke rehabilitation. Scores on the 100-point Activities of Daily Living Index improved from hospital admission to discharge and declined slightly at follow-up. An average Activities of Daily Living Index point gain of 0.6 per day was found that was unrelated to age, sex, side of hemiparesis, or admission functional status. Seventy-nine percent of the patients were discharged home; 85% were home at follow-up. Eleven percent of the patients were working at follow-up. Patients traveled outside their homes an average of 24.6 days during the three months immediately following discharge. A significant number of patients achieved favorable functional housing, employment, and social outcomes. This study supported referral for rehabilitation services regardless of age, side of hemiparesis, or degree of impairment.