Stroke is the third leading cause of death and one of the most common causes of disability and depression. Depression, which is the most common disorder after stroke, is associated with limited functionality, reduced self-care, and increased mortality.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of depressive symptomatology and the degree of functionality in patients after stroke. Additionally, the relationship between the above parameters, as well as their correlation with socio-demographic characteristics and clinical factors of these patients were explored.

A total of 110 patients after stroke (69 men and 41 women) with a mean age of 69.3 ± 13.7 years were recruited and completed (a) a sociodemographic-clinical questionnaire, (b) the Center for Epidemiological Studies-depression (CES-D) scale, and (c) Barthel Index.

A literature review in the Pubmed database has been made, after the year 2005, using the key- words: neuropsychological assessment; MCI; AD; DLB; progression to dementia. Seventeen relevant articles have been found.

76.4% of the participants had ischemic stroke; while the 76.4% were married and the 60% were retired. The 74.5% of our study participants were at risk for depression. 33.6% of our sample were receiving antidepressant treatment. Patients living alone had a higher depressive symptomatology score. Depression was significantly correlated negatively with patients’ degree of functionality and independence. Of the participants in our sample, a percentage of 14.5% had received a disability pension, while 6.4% stated that they had no employment for health reasons, which is indicative of the disruption of their functioning.

The onset of depressive symptoms is common among survivors after stroke. Lonely living, as well as loss of functionality may lead to the appearance of depressive symptoms. Early detection and management of depression may facilitate patient’s compliance to the rehabilitation program in order to achieve optimal therapeutic results and ensure a better quality of life.