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Over 700,000 Americans suffer a stroke each year according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. If those numbers include your loved one, it’s natural to want to know the effects it will have on your family member and the possible rehabilitation services available to help them regain mobility and confidence. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect and how you can help them recover.

How Can Someone Be Affected by Stroke

Physical Weakness & Paralysis

Physical disabilities are one of the most common traits of people who have just survived a stroke. Depending on the severity and the side of the brain that was damaged, the effects can range from one-sided muscle fatigue and weakness—known as hemiparesis—to one-sided paralysis—hemiplegia. Both disabilities can impact balance, coordination, and overall motor control. Additionally, some people develop continual muscle spasms that are known as spasticity. This causes stiffness, tightness, and fatigue, and may require a skilled nursing facility to help relax and rehabilitate the muscles.

Language & Speech Difficulties

Like the physical changes, language and speech are often impacted. Cognitive language impairment includes difficulty recalling words or formulating sentences, while speech problems are more related to motor control of the mouth, jaw, tongue, or vocal cords. Rehabilitation services may be needed to help them, once again, easily participate in talking, reading, or writing. 

Rehabilitation ServicesPoor Memory & Attention Span

Some strokes damage the area of the brain responsible for memory and concentration. Your loved one may have new difficulties solving problems, processing visual cues, remembering important or basic tasks, following instructions, or making new plans.

The Benefits of Speech & Physical Therapy

Post-stroke rehabilitation services develop, manage, and comfort your loved ones as they relearn skills and behaviors that were lost during the stroke. Physical therapists treat motor and sensory impairments, such as relieving muscle pain or spasms and reestablishing healthy movement. Speech-language pathologists, on the other hand, evaluate communication and social issues, from problem-solving to conversation skills.

 

For more resources or post-stroke support, contact the patient-driven staff at Holmes Lake Rehabilitation & Care Center, in Lincoln, NE. Their caring team empowers residents through custom care plans, whether they are recovering from a stroke or need assistance with daily dementia care. Call (402) 489-7175 to speak with one of their health care professionals or visit their website for more information on their rehabilitation services.

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