Post-Stroke Fatigue Perception Study (ReFast)

Post-stroke fatigue is a common and long-lasting symptom experienced by many people after a stroke. It is described as persistent physical, cognitive, or emotional exhaustion that is not proportional to effort and does not consistently improve with rest. Although fatigue can strongly affect participation, autonomy, and quality of life, it remains insufficiently understood and often under-recognized in rehabilitation practice.

The ReFast study (Recovery and Fatigue Study) is a non-interventional, cross-sectional observational study conducted in French-speaking Switzerland. The aim is to explore the subjective experience of post-stroke fatigue in adults living at home in the chronic phase after stroke. The study focuses on understanding how participants perceive their fatigue, how it affects daily life, and which coping strategies they use.

Data will be collected through a single anonymous questionnaire that combines structured questions (including rating scales and multiple-choice items) with open-ended questions. This mixed-methods approach allows both quantitative description and qualitative exploration of participants' experiences.

Primary outcomes relate to the presence, intensity, frequency, and functional impact of fatigue. Secondary outcomes include perceived quality of life, coping strategies, perceived social or professional support, and contextual factors such as age and time since stroke. Open-ended responses will be analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns.

The study does not involve any medical intervention, clinical examination, or follow-up visit. Participation consists of completing one questionnaire session. All data are collected anonymously, and no identifying information is recorded. The overall risk is minimal and limited to possible mild emotional discomfort when reflecting on personal experiences.

By integrating quantitative and qualitative perspectives, this study seeks to generate clinically relevant insights into post-stroke fatigue. The findings may support the development of more patient-centered rehabilitation approaches and inform future research in neurological rehabilitation.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 18 years or older
• Living in French-speaking Switzerland
• Confirmed history of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke
• Self-reported fatigue attributed to stroke
• Living in the community (not institutionalized)
• Able to read and understand written French
• Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Transient ischemic attack (TIA) without confirmed stroke
• History of two or more strokes
• Currently institutionalized (e.g., nursing home, long-term hospital care, rehabilitation center)
• Fatigue primarily caused by another chronic medical condition (e.g., cancer, primary depression, multiple sclerosis)
• Severe cognitive or communication impairment preventing independent completion of the questionnaire
• Unable to understand written French