Gender differences in technological and health status perception and its impact on daily life activities in persons affected by stroke.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: To explore gender-segmented perceptions of improvement through technological devices among stroke survivors, focusing on how these devices influence self-perceived health status and daily life activities. DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis of survey data. SETTING: Community-based data collected from a national disability survey conducted in 2020. PARTICIPANTS: A sample of 971 individuals (464 men, 507 women) aged 18 years and older, diagnosed with stroke and disability resulting from stroke or another condition. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Self-reported perception of improvement in daily activities (mobility, self-care, domestic life) associated with the use of technological devices, segmented by gender. The primary outcome is based on a single self-reported item. RESULTS: Participants reporting greater difficulties in daily activities, including mobility, self-care, and domestic life, exhibited a lower perception of improvement through the use of technological devices. Older women, in particular, reported additional barriers to technology adoption. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the need for inclusive, gender-sensitive, and personalised technological solutions in stroke rehabilitation. Current technologies show potential for enhancing daily functionality and mobility but have limited perceived benefits among stroke survivors, particularly older women facing adoption challenges.