Post-stroke rehabilitation and employment: an individual approach for different occupational groups.

<jats:p>Restoration of work capacity and vocational rehabilitation play a key role for patients who have suffered a stroke, yet only a few successfully return to work [1, 2, 4]. Employment after stroke remains a central goal of rehabilitation, affecting financial stability, psychological well-being, and quality of life for patients [1, 2, 3]. To improve labor reintegration rates, it is necessary to identify and analyze both favorable and barrier factors in this process. Purpose: the aim of this study was to develop recommendations aimed at a successful return to work, as well as to identify key professional factors determining a successful return to work after stroke, with an emphasis on the role of employment type and the ability to adapt work conditions. Materials and methods. A retrospective study of patients with post-stroke sequelae was conducted using aggregated results from reports in the Unified Automated Vertically Integrated Information and Analytical System (EAVIAS) from 2016 to 2023. Results. Blue-collar workers were the most numerous category (46.8%), but they also demonstrated the lowest level of work orientation (77.3%). This is due to the high physical demands of the job, limited opportunities for retraining, and less flexible work conditions compared to office occupations. Furthermore, lower access to rehabilitation programs due to socioeconomic status may also impact the ability and desire to return to work. White-collar workers (40.1%) demonstrated a higher work orientation (83.6%), which is explained by flexible work conditions, such as remote work or a modified schedule, as well as the preservation of cognitive functions critical for intellectual work. Higher levels of education and qualifications also contribute to successful rehabilitation and return to work. Pink-collar (8.0%) and gray-collar (5.0%) workers demonstrated the highest work-related focus (82.8–91.4%). This may be due to greater opportunities for professional retraining, such as transitioning to administrative or service positions, as well as less physical strain compared to blue-collar workers. Furthermore, greater motivation to return to work, particularly among women employed in the service sector, may also play a role. Analysis using the Pearson chi-square test and Cramer’s V coefficient confirmed statistically significant differences between occupational categories (p &lt; 0.001). Findings. The study confirms that occupational type is a key predictor of successful return to work after stroke. The results can be used to develop targeted rehabilitation programs aimed at enhancing the work reintegration of patients, taking into account their professional characteristics.</jats:p>