It is important to remember that the effects of stroke can vary widely from person to person. Because the brain is so complex, it is impossible to predict with any certainty what impact a stroke will have on an individual. Stroke can bring about changes in personality, behavior, self-awareness and many other areas. This section discusses how to locate resources that will help in medical and psychological rehabilitation.
In order to access services, a primary care physician plays a key role in making referrals and signing medical documentation. Your primary care physician may not be familiar with the issues that may arise after a stroke. For informational material to give to your physician, call the Minnesota Stroke Association at 763-553-0088.
The Process of Medical Care
After a stroke, medical care and evaluation is a process, not an event. In fact, many persons need medical care and evaluation after discharge from the hospital. For example, persons with a disability due to stroke may struggle with problems related to memory, cognitive skills, learning new skills, emotional changes, vision and many other aspects of physical and mental health that may not be apparent until after hospital discharge.
The hospital works to create stability in a person’s medical condition. After a person is stabilized, they often are discharged. Medical problems are not always identified until some time after a stroke occurs. As a result, the responsibility of accessing quality, comprehensive medical care is shifted to the patient. Be sure to stay in communication with your primary care doctor. Many persons experience significant changes as they go through the rehabilitation process.
Acute vs. Sub-Acute Rehabilitation
Acute rehabilitation addresses skills related to physical health, personal care, cognitive processing, language and communication, movement and mobility, behavior and environmental awareness and responsiveness. Usually, acute rehabilitation happens first. Sub-acute rehabilitation addresses skills relating to community living, employment, school, behavior, recreation and independent living. Occasionally, a person who has had a stroke may need to enter acute rehabilitation after medical or behavioral issues are resolved.
Physiatrists and Rehabilitation
A physiatrist is a physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) doctor responsible for coordinating the rehabilitative needs of a person with a disability due to stroke. The physiatrist often works with a team of other health professionals to develop and implement a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that addresses all aspects of a person’s life.
If a physiatrist is working with you or your loved one, she or he should be involved in all aspects of the rehabilitation process.
Rehabilitation specialists work as a team. In addition to the physiatrist and the person with the stroke, members of the rehabilitation team may include the person with a disability due to stroke’s loved ones, neurosurgeons, neurologists, nurses, social workers, neuropsychologists, psychologists, and occupational, recreation, speech, and physical therapists.
For more information, contact the Minnesota Stroke Association at 763-553-0088.