Rehabilitation*

Rehabilitation is a key part of a stroke survivor's recovery plan.  Patients are introduced to rehabilitation soon after they have been stabilized medically.  Depending on the scope and magnitude of the stroke, rehabilitation can be a short program or a life-long commitment.  The goals of rehabilitation are to increase independence, improve physical functioning, improve quality of life and help prevent another stroke. 

A rehabilitation program can address some or all of these issues and is designed to meet individual needs:

• Activities of daily living, such as eating, dressing and bathing
• Mobility skills, such as walking or self-propelling a wheelchair
• Communication skills in speech and language
• Cognitive skills, such as memory or problem solving
• Socialization skills
• Psychological functioning

A number of skilled professionals are involved in the rehabilitation program:

• Physiatrist - a doctor specializing in rehabilitation
• Physical therapist - works with the survivor to improve mobility and independence
• Occupation therapist - focuses on rebuilding skills in daily living activities (e.g., bathing, dressing, eating)
• Rehabilitation nurse - coordinates the medical support needs of patients through rehabilitation
• Speech therapist - helps to restore language skills and treats swallowing disorders
• Recreational therapist - helps to modify activities to suit the abilities of a stroke survivor
• Psychiatrist or psychologist - helps survivors cope with the emotional challenges of adjusting to their new circumstances
• Vocational rehabilitation counselor - works with patients to assess work-related abilities

*Adapted from the American Stroke Association's Let's Talk About Stroke kit.