Background. Previous literature examined tactile and proprioceptive changes after stroke; however, the lived experience of changes in all sensory systems is still a gap in the literature. Purpose. To gain understanding of stroke survivors’ experience of sensory changes and how sensory changes impact participation in daily life activities. Method. This study utilized a qualitative description method. Researchers used semi-structured interviews with probing questions. Inductive content analysis approach was used to analyze the data. Researchers recruited 13 stroke survivors ≤75 years old who participated in a community-based stroke program. Findings. Emerging themes included daily life impact of sensory function changes, and experience and timing of sensory changes. Participants experienced changes in various sensory systems including touch and proprioception, visual, auditory, and taste. Survivors also reported sensitivity to environmental stimuli. Sensory changes affect survivors’ participation in different aspects of daily life activities. Most participants experienced sensory changes right after their stroke. Implications. Results from this study inform health care providers about stroke survivors’ sensory needs to help them design interventions that match their needs.

Date Presented 04/05/19 While many studies focus on the impact of somatosensory changes on participation after stroke, they do not address the lived experience of all sensory systems (e.g., taste and smell). Researchers used a qualitative descriptive method using semistructured interviews to collect data. Results from this study could be utilized to inform healthcare providers about stroke survivors’ sensory needs and preferences to help them design interventions that match their needs. Primary Author and Speaker: Dua'a Alwawi Additional Authors and Speakers: Ashleigh Heldstab, Evan Dean, Winnie Dunn, Lisa Mische-Lawson

Date Presented 4/8/2016 This study evaluated tooth-brushing ability in people after left stroke, using their ipsilateral, nondominant, left limb. Rehabilitation of the ipsilateral hand and specific skills such as tooth brushing warrants additional consideration. Primary Author and Speaker: Andy Wu Additional Authors and Speakers: Dua’a Alwawi, Bonnie Branson

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Date Presented 03/27/20 Coping strategies are found to predict success in rehabilitation. Research is lacking in identifying the specific coping strategies used to adjust to sensory changes. This study seeks to understand how individuals handle sensory changes after stroke. Researchers used a qualitative descriptive method using semistructured interviews to collect data. Results from this study can be utilized to inform OTs about what strategies are being used by stroke survivors to cope with sensory changes. Primary Author and Speaker: Dua’a Alwawi Additional Authors and Speakers: Ashleigh Heldstab, Evan Dean