Studies indicate that 60 percent of stroke survivors can benefit from aggressive rehabilitation intervention, with more than 80 percent of those treated through rehabilitation services returning to their homes, work, schools or active retirement. According to a recent survey, less than 25 percent of Americans can name the most common warning sign of stroke. Therefore, the more people know about stroke, the better the opportunity to save their own life or someone else's. And the sooner stroke rehabilitation begins, the greater the chance of someone leading a productive life. The campaign will also teach survivors how to cope with life after a stroke and recover through rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation aims to hasten and maximize recovery by treating the disabilities caused by stroke.
Rehabilitation restores function, teaches people with disabilities new ways to perform daily activities and provides education and support for the stroke survivor and family. Through our nationwide network of rehabilitation hospitals, we hope to not only increase awareness of stroke warning signs, but also educate stroke survivors, families and the general public about the value of rehabilitation and the importance of early stroke intervention. As part of the campaign, the two organizations are also working on pilot programs to provide free stroke screenings to consumers in designated areas across the country. This percentage represents a small fraction of the people who could benefit from rehabilitation and return to independent and fulfilling lives. This partnership will enable us to further enhance our support of stroke survivors and their families.