Work Type
Poster
Abstract
Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of disability across the globe, accounting for 143 millions years of disability-adjusted life years (eClinicalMedicine, 2023). In Sri Lanka, 1.6 million people have a disability impacting daily life, a primarily cause being stroke. The impact of stroke symptoms, can affect the persons the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), functional mobility and community engagement, sleep/rest, functional cognition, and communication (Kariyawasam et al., 2020).
The rise of disabilities and unmet rehabilitative needs can be due to limited resources and comprehensive care. Sri Lanka, a country of 22 million have 490 beds available in rehabilitative hospitals, only 32% of which have occupational therapists (OT) (Kleinitz et al., 2024). The scarcity of resources forces practitioners to rely on educational materials and caregivers for care. However, literature describes caregiver fear while caring for their loved ones, identifying lack of resources and knowledge as barriers in daily life (Wagachchige et al., 2018).
It is within the OT scope of practice to provide holistic and evidence-based care, addressing physical and mental health needs after a stroke (Rowland et al., 2008). By prioritizing cultural competency, client-centered care, and appropriate educational support, improvements can be made in functional outcomes and quality of life globally.
Publication Date
5-17-2026
Citation Information
Feldmann, Julia, "Enhancing Stroke Education: A Cross-Cultural Experience" (2026). Student Works Occupational Therapy Capstones. 7.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/stu_ot/7
