Life expectancy based on the severity scale
The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is used to assess the disability related to neurological deficits. The explanation of the grades and the expected years of life after a stroke in a 70 year old male patient is as follows:
- Grade 0: there are no symptoms. 13 years of expected life after a stroke or a cut short of 1 year from the average lifespan
- Grade 1: there is no significant disability and the survivor is able-bodied enough for routine tasks. 13 years of post-stroke life expectancy is indicated by the study.
- Grade 2: the patient has a slight disability, can look after self, but a decreased efficiency in tasks performed previously. 11 years of life expectancy is indicated by the study
- Grade 3: the patient has a moderate disability, requires minor assistance in usual tasks but can walk unassisted. The study gives 8 years of expected life.
- Grade 4: this scale indicates moderate to severe disability. The patient requires assistance in walking. Life expectancy is 6 years.
- Grade 5: the survivor has a severe disability, is bedridden and requires constant nursing. Life expectancy is a mere 5 years.