Predictors and trajectory of psychological and cognitive health among individuals with cerebrovascular disease: an analysis of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Stroke is a common cause of disability in the Canadian population, especially among the elderly. Large studies have mostly examined physical disability, rather than mental or cognitive dysfunction, after stroke. We will be conducting a study using the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, which includes approximately 50,000 Canadians with follow-up over time. We will be evaluating whether patients with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (“warning stroke”) have impairment in their psychological and cognitive health at baseline, and what specific domains are affected. We will also be examining changes in these outcomes over a 3 year period, and identify whether certain characteristics predict a decline in performance. A better understanding of quality of life, psychological health, and cognitive impairment is important to plan resources in caring for people with stroke, and create the most effective programs for rehabilitation and community support.