Sometimes persons feel tempted to just allow the program staff to take charge. Or, they may have difficulty communicating ideas and needs. Professionals and family members alike may need to assist the patient in this process. As the program goes forward, members of the Stroke Program team will keep the survivor as well as the family informed about the treatment and progress being made. The Patient and Family As is emphasized above, the most important members of the rehabilitation team are the person seeking recovery and the family.
Most patients find that recovery is hard work.
Families need to provide support, companionship and motivation as well as to learn and offer needed caregiving skills. After rehabilitation goals are achieved, the recovery process continues in the community. Sometimes it is difficult to transfer skills learned during rehabilitation to another location. Regular follow-up is usually provided by the person's primary care physician and any Stroke Program specialists as necessary. The period following a brain attack may be difficult.