Knowledge of support and aid after first stroke

Background: The literature predicts a considerable demand of support and aid for stroke patients and their caregivers. It is not known to what extent existing resources are used by these groups. Purpose: The present study aimed at a survey of knowledge of and acquaintance with institutions and organizations offering support after stroke and actual use of these resources. Methods: Six and twelve months after stroke, 84 patients and their nearest others were questioned concerning their acquaintance with and use of professional and institutional resources for support and also with respect to social support and self-efficacy. Results: Six and twelve months after stroke, actual use of the various resources for support varied between 0 and 13%. Only part of the patients (11-65%) and relatives (up to 78%) knew about the professional and institutional resource available. Discussion: Information about resources for support after stroke is unsatisfactory and should be established at a point in the delivery of care chain where all those affected by stroke and their caregivers are accessed.