ABSTRACT
The capability of balance preservation in activities of daily living [ADL] is of paramount important. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between balance disorders and independence in ADL of patients, 6-24 months after their stroke in Tehran. This was a cross-sectional study. Forty Five stroke patients attending occupational therapy clinics in Tehran over a 7 months period, who met the inclusion criteria, were selected using simple randomization. The subjects were evaluated for performance of ADL by Barthel Index and for balance by Berg Balance scale. The data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. There was a significant relationship between balance and independence in ADL [p<0.05]. However, there was no significant relationship between balance in sitting position and independence in ADL. The results show a correlation between balance and independence in ADL. Improvement of these factors especially dynamic balance, may improve independence and the quality of life in hemiplegic patients