Longitudinal Study on Unmet Needs in Young Stroke Survivors: Predictive Factors and Consequences

ABSTRACT Aims To investigate unmet need trajectories among young stroke survivors, identify predictive factors and evaluate the lagged effects of unmet needs on post‐stroke health outcomes. Design Prospective longitudinal study. Methods We recruited 122 patients with stroke, assessed at four time points over a 6‐month follow‐up period. The Unmet Needs Questionnaire assessed unmet needs. Predictive factors included participant characteristics and stroke‐related factors. Outcome variables included physical functions, quality of life, depressive symptoms and return‐to‐work status. Generalised Estimating Equations were employed. Results Unmet need trajectories decreased over time. Sex, marital status, stroke history, stroke severity, fatigue and cognitive function were key unmet need predictors. Lagged unmet needs were associated with poorer post‐stroke health outcomes. Conclusion This study highlights the dynamic nature of unmet needs in young stroke survivors and underscores the importance of addressing these needs to improve post‐stroke health outcomes. Targeted interventions are essential to mitigate the negative impact of unmet needs on recovery. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care Young stroke survivors continue to experience unmet needs in important areas even 6 months post‐stroke. Nurses play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by regularly assessing patient care needs, monitoring their progress and implementing targeted interventions. Integrating routine nursing assessments into post‐stroke care can help identify high‐risk patients and ensure that individualised support is provided throughout the recovery process. Reporting Method Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology. Patient or Public Contribution No patient or public contribution.