The Prognosis and Rehabilitation Options for Stroke Victims

When your elderly loved one suffers a stroke, it’s a traumatic experience for the whole family. However, it is important to understand that the prognosis for stroke victims is highly positive, so long as the individual receives medical attention in a timely manner. As soon as the signs of a stroke appear, that family needs to get their senior to the hospital immediately. 

According to those specializing in elder care, Iowa families should look out for these common signs of a stroke: 

• Numbness or weakness in the face, arms, legs, or on one side of the body
• Confusion
• Trouble speaking or understanding what others are saying
• Dizziness
• Sudden, severe headaches

Other symptoms include drooping on one side of the face, issues with motor skills and coordination, and loss of control over limbs. When these symptoms occur, senior care professionals explain that it is essential that the individual gets treatment right away. Studies show that immediate treatment helps to lessen the long-term impact of the stroke.

Rehabilitation options after a stroke

The rehabilitation process typically begins in the hospital as soon as possible once the stroke has occurred. Those who are stabilized will typically begin the recovery process just two or three days after the stroke. In order to make the recovery last, the patient will need to continue with a regular rehabilitation routine. 

There is a number of different places where post-stroke treatment can occur, including:

• A rehabilitation unit in the hospital
• A specialized rehabilitation hospital
• Via outpatient therapy administered at home
• A long-term care facility

The ultimate goal of rehabilitation, no matter how or where it is administered, is to help the senior to improve their function so that they can live a high quality life. Depending on the severity of the stroke, this may include helping the elderly individual to relearn how to eat, dress themselves, walk, and talk. 

A stroke is a devastating experience that can strip a person’s sense of independence. However, with a strict rehabilitation regimen given by highly trained professionals, a senior will be able to slowly rebuild the life they once enjoyed. Family members must work closely with their elderly loved one to ensure they are getting the care they need to make a recovery after a stroke has taken place. Professionals who care for seniors can help.