Investment in life after stroke in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Stroke research in Aotearoa New Zealand has received substantial investment; however, relatively little funding has been directed towards understanding and improving life after stroke. This investment summary examined publicly funded stroke research projects supported by the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC), with a specific focus on research addressing life after stroke (LAS), including psychosocial wellbeing, rehabilitation experiences, service navigation, social support, and return-to-work outcomes. A total of NZD $23.69 million was identified across stroke-related research projects where stroke was referenced in the title or abstract. Of this, only NZD $487,244.23 (2.06%) was allocated to life-after-stroke research across seven projects funded between 2019 and 2024. Despite the significant long-term impacts of stroke on individuals, whānau, and communities, the findings highlight a marked imbalance in research investment, with the overwhelming majority of stroke funding directed towards biomedical and acute care priorities. Greater investment in life-after-stroke research is needed to support recovery, participation, equity, and quality of life for stroke survivors in Aotearoa New Zealand.