The stroke survivor

This article reviews the physiological basis of stroke rehabilitation and describes the theories and interventions involved in the rehabilitation of the stroke survivor.

Stroke remains the third most common cause of death in the Western World, and is the leading cause of adult disability and placement into extended care facilities. Stroke is not a disease of the old, but affects many people under the age of 65. Comprehensive rehabilitation may improve the functional abilities of the stroke survivor, despite age and neurologic deficit, and decrease long-term patient care costs. Rehabilitation not only involves restoring independence in mobility and activities of daily living, but maximizing compensatory strategies in linguistic and cognitive function. Strategies to reintegrate the stroke survivor into the community are discussed. Secondary complications of stroke are described, and interventions are suggested to prevent and treat potential medical issues.

Stroke rehabilitation may be a lifetime endeavour, and requires proper medical resources to successfully address physical, linguistic, cognitive and psychosocial issues. Good communication between the rehabilitation team, the patient and the family facilitates optimal care and provides the stroke survivor with the opportunity to reach his maximal functional potential.