A Proposal for the Development of a Post-Discharge Transition Programme using Skype™ for Individuals with Stroke in Singapore
Citation
(2016) A Proposal for the Development of a Post-Discharge
Transition Programme using Skype™ for Individuals with
Stroke in Singapore, no. 147.
Abstract
Transitioning from hospital to home after being diagnosed with a stroke is a challenging
period of time. The sudden and unpredictable nature of stroke often causes stroke patients
and caregivers to be unprepared to return to daily life. As stroke affects many aspects of an
individual, long-term disability is common and rehabilitation is required for most patients.
Individuals with stroke commonly identified needs relating to participation in daily
occupations at home and in the community. Occupational therapy is a profession that
enables individuals to participate in activities of daily living.
Despite the availability of outpatient rehabilitation services, lapses in discharge coordination
and misconceptions of therapy has led to low utilisation of these services. This is detrimental
to the individual with stroke as intensive rehabilitation is recommended during the first six
months after a stroke.
Currently, there is a lack of programmes for stroke patients in Singapore transitioning from
hospitals back to their homes and outpatient rehabilitation. Skype™, an online application
used to connect people at different locations through video calls, can be used by
occupational therapists based in hospitals to provide transitional support for individuals with
stroke at home.
The programme development plan outlines the provision of occupational therapy support,
through Skype™ video calls for stroke patients and caregivers, during the transition from
hospital to outpatient rehabilitation, in Singapore. This aims to improve the transition
experience, maximise occupational participation and increase the uptake of outpatient
rehabilitation.