Post-Rehabilitation Challenges and Healthcare Needs of Stroke Survivors in Saudi Arabia

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally, including in Saudi Arabia. This study examined the unmet healthcare and social needs of post-rehabilitation patients with stroke, focusing on individual, family, and governmental support to evaluate the effectiveness of existing healthcare and social systems. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City in Riyadh, focusing on patients admitted to the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit between September 2020 and June 2023. Participants aged ≥18 years with a confirmed stroke diagnosis occurring more than 6 months prior were included. Data collection involved a specially designed questionnaire addressing health and social needs, validated through a pilot study and translated into Arabic for clarity during patient interviews. The study of 71 predominantly male patients with stroke (average age: 55.4 years) revealed significant challenges. Most were married, illiterate, and lived outside Riyadh. Ischemic strokes were common (63.4%), often affecting the left side (66.2%), with most patients (81.7%) experiencing a single stroke. While 63.4% lived in their own homes, 59.2% had not made disability-related modifications. Financial difficulties were prevalent, including high unemployment (73.2%), lack of medical insurance (84.5%), and limited financial aid (74.6%). Disability support was low, with few having parking cards (23.9%) or a primary care physician (54.9%). Despite these issues, mobile phone usage (94.4%) and medication adherence (83.1%) were high. Employment, healthcare access, and disability support were influenced by age and residence. Post-stroke, many patients faced challenges; therefore, there is an urgent need for better post-stroke support, including home adaptations, financial aid, and comprehensive healthcare services, especially in rural areas.