A grounded theory approach was utilised to carry out this study and purposive sampling was used to select participants.  An interview schedule was used to guide interviews, all of which were tape recorded and transcribed. The constant comparative technique used to analyze the data was complemented by the international literature. The Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale, the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living and the SF36-v2 were also used.

The results from the SF36-v2 indicated that person with a stroke had highest levels of dependence overall in relation to activities of daily living and scores for role physical, general health and vitality were also relatively low. In relation to self esteem these participants had the second lowest self esteem score. The Katz Index revealed that 50% (n=10) were dependent in relation to bathing. Forty percent (n=8) needed help with dressing, 30% (n=6) needed help with transferring, 25% help with toileting, 20% had problems with continence while 1% (n=1) needed help with feeding. The qualitative data revealed five domains of quality of life which were important for participants; health, environment, sense of self, connectedness and income.  Each of these quality of life domains will be described and the particular issues for people with a stroke identified. Key health issues for older people with a stroke will also be analysed.