Klimatvårdens inverkan på stämningsläget hos strokepatienter

Sammanfattning: Poststroke depression (PSD) is a common complication after stroke. The effects of climate therapy on rehabilitation of stroke patients constitute a scientific knowledge gap. Purpose: To investigate the impact of climate therapy on the mood of stroke patients. Method: A qualitative interview with semi-structured questions and a quantitative self- assessment tool in the form of a survey, HAD (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). As an incidental finding HAD also provided information about the anxiety level. Result: The result showed that most patients felt better mentally as a result of the rehabilitation at the climate therapy facility. After content analysis of the informants responses, three main categories could be compiled; positive experiences, maintaining functions and motivation, and worrying about life at home. The HAD survey showed that of the seven informants included in the study, five reported that they were suffering from depression or anxiety when arriving at the climate therapy facility. At discharge, no informant reported depression and only one informant reported mild to moderate anxiety. Conclusion: The result suggests that climate therapy resulted in an improved mental health, an improved mood and a reduced anxiety level for the majority of the patients who participated in the study.