Meaningful participation for people with stroke: a systematic review of qualitative studies.
Upendranatha Reddy Potturi, Melanie Hoyle, Sandra G Brauer et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesized qualitative and mixed-methods studies examining meaningful participation from the perspectives of adults with stroke. Across 56 studies, the authors identified three overarching themes: regaining normality, achieving independence, and feeling valued. Participation encompassed resuming or redefining activities, exercising control and contributing to everyday life, and sustaining roles and social connections. The review concludes that meaningful participation is subjective and changes over time, extending beyond physical recovery to include identity, autonomy, and belonging.
Key findings
- The review included 56 studies selected from 7,328 records.
- Three analytical themes described meaningful participation: regaining normality, achieving independence, and feeling valued.
- Participation included everyday activities and decision-making, fulfilling roles, and maintaining or rebuilding relationships.
Why it matters
The findings frame participation as more than physical function or task completion: it also involves personal identity, autonomy, relationships, and belonging. Recognizing these dimensions can help rehabilitation teams understand why the same activity may matter differently to different people and why goals may need to evolve during recovery.
What to keep in mind
The review included only qualitative and mixed-methods studies published in English, which may limit the range of perspectives represented.