A stroke can be a devastating medical event for the patient, as well as their friends and family. After a stroke has taken place, doctors will work to try to overcome the negative effects that took place through a process called neuro rehab. If you have a loved one who has recently suffered a stroke and is preparing for this rehab, you may wonder what the goals of the program are. While the exact goals can vary from patient to patient, here are three neurological goals that are common targets after a stroke.

1. Rebuild Functional Abilities

Following a stroke, neuro rehab is designed to help a patient rebuild their functional abilities. This can include learning how to walk again, learning how to talk again, or learning how to brush their teeth. A patient who has suffered from a stroke may experience a range of physical symptoms, ranging from weakness to paralysis. This program can be used in conjunction with physical therapy to help improve their functional abilities.

2. Maximize Independence

A patient who has suffered a stroke loses some of their independence. According to the Yale School of Medicine, an estimated 25% to 50% of elderly patients who are hospitalized experience a loss of functional independence during a hospitalization. As such, neuro rehab is important, as one of the key goals is to help maximize a patient’s level of independence before they can go back home.

3. Facilitate a Smooth Transition

The final goal of this rehab is to ultimately facilitate a smooth transition back home or to a long-term care facility for the patient. Medical experts want the patient to be able to do as much for themselves as possible prior to heading home, and they want to ensure that the caregivers or family members know what to expect as a patient transitions home.

A stroke can negatively affect a person’s cognitive and physical abilities. While a patient may never be 100% back to normal after such a life-altering medical event, our rehab program can help a patient rebuild their functional abilities, help maximize their level of independence, and ultimately, help the patient smoothly transition back home or to a long-term care facility. If you have a loved one who can benefit from neuro rehab, reach out to North Westchester Restorative Therapy & Nursing Center today to discuss our available treatment options.