UPPER LIMB MOTOR FUNCTION AS A CORRELATE OF SELF-EFFICACY AND LIFE SATISFACTION IN CHRONIC STROKE SURVIVORS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Upper limb (UL) dysfunction is a prevalent and disabling consequence of stroke, yet its relationship with crucial patient-centered outcomes like self-efficacy and life satisfaction is not fully quantified. Understanding this link is essential for holistic stroke rehabilitation.

Objective: To investigate the correlation between the level of UL motor dysfunction and the levels of self-efficacy and life satisfaction in chronic stroke survivors.

Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted with 30 chronic stroke survivors (16 male, 14 females; mean age 60.00 ± 8.34 years). UL motor function was assessed using two performance-based measures: the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Limb (FMA-UL) for impairment and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) for functional capacity. Self-satisfaction was evaluated using two patient-reported questionnaires: the Stroke Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (SSEQ) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Spearman's rank-order correlation was used to analyze the associations between these variables.

Results: Statistically significant, strong positive correlations were found between higher UL motor function and greater self-satisfaction. Specifically, better FMA-UL scores were strongly correlated with higher SSEQ scores (r=0.748, p<0.001), and better ARAT scores were strongly correlated with higher SSEQ scores (r=0.732, p<0.001). Higher ARAT scores were also moderately correlated with greater SWLS (r=0.453, p=0.045). Additionally, better FMA-UL scores were significantly associated with younger age (r=-0.476, p=0.034) and shorter duration of illness (r=-0.495, p=0.026).

Conclusion: In chronic stroke survivors, a strong and significant positive relationship exists between upper limb motor function and the psychosocial constructs of self-efficacy and life satisfaction. These findings empirically support the biopsychosocial model of stroke recovery and highlight the importance of rehabilitation interventions that not only improve physical capacity but also aim to enhance a patient's sense of confidence and overall well-being.