Participation in Personal and Professional Roles After Young Adult Stroke: A Scoping Review

Abstract

ImportanceYoung adulthood is characterized by role developmental and occupational transitions; however, rehabilitation for young adult stroke survivors (YASS) is largely informed by evidence from older adults. Understanding the unique participation challenges of YASS is important for identifying tailored intervention targets.ObjectiveTo systematically map, synthesize, and identify gaps in the literature examining YASS participation.Data SourcesEBSCO search across Academic Search Ultimate, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE, and APA PsycInfo.Study Selection and Data CollectionPeer-reviewed studies reporting original data from YASS aged 18-45 that address participation in a role (e.g., parent, spouse), activity (e.g., education), or set of activities (e.g., activities of daily living). Data were extracted and synthesized to describe poststroke participation.FindingsFifteen studies reflected a heterogeneous evidence base. Findings suggest that stroke leads to occupational disruption with multi-layered and compounding effects on roles and activities during young adulthood.Conclusions and RelevanceStroke disrupts the life course trajectory through which roles, identities, future possibilities, and life structures are formed, negotiated, and adjusted.This review charted the limited and fragmented literature, indicating a need for evidence to inform clinical practices tailored to the distinct and evolving needs of YASS.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2026 · DOI ↗