When recovering from a stroke, rehabilitation is critical in helping the individual return to independent living. Rehabilitation does not reverse or undo the damage caused by a stroke, rather, the focus of rehabilitation is to rebuild strength, coordination, capability, and confidence. Stroke rehabilitation is designed to meet the individual's needs, thus, each program is different.
Stroke rehabilitation works best when the patient and their family members work together as a team.
Family members need to understand the stroke disabilities and how they affect the individual. The overall goal of the program is to restore the impaired functions and to compensate for any lost functions, thereby, increasing physical ability and independence.