HOUSTON – Maybe your mom or dad, or even a spouse, has suffered from a stroke.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. It is the leading cause of serious long-term disability, and it reduces mobility in more than half of stroke survivors aged 65 and older.
Where to find help
Arundhati Bijoor, a physical therapist with Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital-Katy, said the method of inpatient stroke rehab is one form of post-stroke treatment that he has seen be incredibly beneficial to stroke survivors. He said there is evidence that patients have better outcomes when transitioned to an inpatient rehabilitation facility after a stroke because of the team approach and intensive therapy that is offered around the clock.
From his professional experience working with stroke survivors, Bijoor said there are several activities patients should take part in as part of their recovery, all of which should be part of their rehabilitation at an inpatient facility:
- Those who have trouble walking should undergo intense mobility-task training to help them relearn how to perform daily activities, such as climbing stairs.
- Those who have trouble speaking should undergo speech therapy.
- The use of a computer, books, music and virtual reality games have the ability help enhance rehabilitation, as it can make it more engaging and mentally stimulating.
- Patients who have vision problems and have trouble focusing should perform eye exercises.
- Balance training should be offered to stroke survivors at risk for falls.
- Exercise regimens tailored to individual stroke patients can help them continue to improve their fitness level once their rehabilitation is complete.
For more information
To learn more, contact Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital-Katy, where specialized medical management, nursing and therapy services are offered in individual therapy, group treatment and community outings to address a patient’s functional abilities. You can also call 800-447-3422.