Recovery from stroke is greatly optimised when caught early on. For this reason, it is paramount that you recognise the symptoms if you see them occur in elderly friends or relatives. Typical signs of stroke include; numbness of the face, or limb, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion; difficulty in vision; sudden loss of balance, or headaches. When such symptoms are sudden and severe, you need to act quickly. Don’t waste a second in calling 999 in order to take advantage of the limited time window available to increase the effectiveness of physical therapy on the stroke victim. If you are in some doubt about the symptoms, try asking the person to smile, raise both arms and speak a simple sentence. Any evidence of asymmetry or confusion in their response will help you to recognise that they are suffering a stroke.
Stroke rehabilitation is a lengthy and difficult process, and may require the support of numerous experts. The services of a physical therapist, speech trainer, psychologist and recreational therapist may very well be required to support a multi-pronged approach back to wellness. Rehabilitation is a considerable challenge for stroke victims, and it is not uncommon to see vastly different responses to treatment. One thing is for sure, rehabilitation works best when it’s fully supported by friends and family, and the sufferer’s spirits are kept up. Psychological wellbeing is vital in stroke recovery, and will form the backbone of the sufferer’s strength of will in getting back to normal.