STROKE RECOVERY

A stroke is an disruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain. Stroke is the leading cause of disability among adults in the United States. It is the country’s third leading cause of death.

This article discusses recovery from stroke. How well a person does after a stroke depends on the severity of the stroke and the area affected, and how quickly treatment is received.

The treatment goals after a stroke are: 1) To help the patient re-learn as many skills as possible, 2) prevent future strokes, and 3) prevent any complications from a stroke.

The recuperation time and need for long-term treatment differs from person to person. Problems related to moving, thinking, and talking often improve in days to several months after a stroke. Numerous people who have had a stroke will still continue to improve in the months or years after a stroke. Many, sadly, will not recover completely.

GOING HOME AFTER STROKE REHABILITATION

After suffering a stroke, many patients have stroke rehabilitation so they recover more fully. Participating in stroke rehabilitation helps the patient regain the ability to take care of his or her self; what we call Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Most types of, therapies can be provided wherever you or your loved one live, including in the home. Therapy may be done in a special part of a hospital or in a nursing home or rehabilitation facility. Those who have been released from the hospital might go to stroke rehabilitation therapy at a special clinic or have someone come to their home.

It can be difficult to decide whether the person who has the stroke will be able to return to their home after rehabilitation. Being able to stay in the home depends on how severe the stroke was and whether the person can take care of his or her self. It may also depend how much help there will be at home and whether the home is safe for them.

Sometimes, new living situations such as boarding homes or convalescent homes may be needed to provide a safe environment for a stroke patient.

For those being cared for at home:
Changes in the home may be needed to keep a loved one safe from falling or wandering, as well as making the home easier to use. This involves making sure the bed and bathroom are easy to get to and removing items (such as throw rugs) that may cause a fall.
A number of assistive devices are available to help with activities such as cooking or eating, bathing or showering, moving around the home or elsewhere, dressing and grooming, writing and using a computer, and many more activities.
Family counseling may help in coping with the changes required for home care. Visiting nurses or aides, volunteer services, homemakers, adult protective services, adult day care, and other community resources may be helpful.
Legal advice may be appropriate. Advance directives, power of attorney, and other legal actions may make it easier to make ethical decisions regarding the care of a person who has had a stroke.