According to a new scientific statement, it is believed that over half of stroke survivors could develop cognitive impairment within a year post-stroke.
This new statement, titled “Cognitive Impairment After Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic Stroke” is an expert analysis of current research that is hoped will inform future guidelines. The statement advises post-stroke screenings and comprehensive interdisciplinary care to support survivors with cognitive impairment.
Nada El Husseini, chair of the scientific statement writing committee, says: “Cognitive impairment is an often under-reported and under-diagnosed — yet very common condition that stroke survivors frequently deal with.
“Stroke survivors should be systematically evaluated for cognitive impairment so that treatment may begin as soon as possible after signs appear.”
The statement also notes that 1 in 3 stroke survivors are at risk for developing dementia within 5 years post-stroke.
El Husseini, says: “Cognitive impairment after stroke ranges from mild impairment to dementia and may affect many aspects of life, such as remembering, thinking, planning, language and attention, as well as a person’s ability to work, drive or live independently.”
According to this statement, published in the journal ‘Stroke’:
- Cognitive impairment after stroke is common in the first year after a stroke, occurring in up to 60 per cent of stroke survivors. It is most common within the first two weeks after a stroke.
- About 40 per cent of people who survive a stroke have cognitive impairment during the first year after the stroke that does not meet diagnostic criteria for dementia, yet it still impacts their quality of life.
- Up to 20 per cent of stroke survivors who experience mild cognitive impairment fully recover cognitive function, and cognitive recovery is most likely within the first 6 months after a stroke.
- Post-stroke cognitive impairment is often associated with other conditions, including physical disability, sleep disorders, behavioural and personality changes, depression and other neuropsychological changes — each of which may contribute to lower quality of life.
The statement notes the importance of early detection during the initial hospitalisation for stroke for immediate care planning, whilst also expressing the importance of assessing cognitive changes over time.
Stroke survivors who experience unexplained difficulties with cognitive-related activities of daily living, following care instructions or providing a reliable health history may be candidates for additional cognitive screening.
If cognitive impairment is detected, health professionals are encouraged to examine the individual’s daily functioning with neuropsychological screenings, which evaluate areas of brain function that affect behaviour and may provide a more thorough picture of the individual’s cognitive strength and weaknesses.
Health care professionals are also encourages to give advice to patients and caregivers regarding patient safety, returning to work and driving post-stroke.
