A stroke can change many aspects of a person’s life, including noticeable changes in physical coordination, memory and speech. The first step after a stroke is usually receiving emergency care in a hospital. The next step in recovery is to understand how the stroke has affected the brain and body. One way to do this is through neurological assessments, including a neuropsychological evaluation. Neurological assessments aren’t typically performed as a part of initial hospital treatment. Instead, they are often offered following hospital care and initial rehab therapies. Once you’ve completed initial treatment following your stroke, determining your neurological status is important. It is a key step in creating a recovery plan that meets each person’s unique needs.
5 benefits of determining neurological status after experiencing a stroke
If you or someone you know has sustained a stroke, you’re not alone. Research estimates that about 795,000 people in the United States have strokes each year. These strokes affect different people in different ways; the full effects of a stroke may not be understood until after testing and evaluations. Understanding a person’s neurological status after a stroke provides many benefits. It can guide therapy decisions, help set realistic goals and improve recovery outcomes. Here are five key benefits of in-depth assessments after a stroke:
- Provides early intervention — A stroke can affect memory, thinking and problem-solving. Some people may struggle with remembering names, following instructions or concentrating on tasks. An assessment can help identify cognitive challenges early. This allows for faster intervention, which may improve recovery outcomes. Assessments can determine which areas of thinking are affected and help therapists create specific memory exercises to improve skills.
- Improves language and speech — Many individuals recovering from strokes experience aphasia. Aphasia is characterized by difficulty speaking, understanding words or finding the right words. When a stroke affects someone’s ability to communicate, it’s important to determine their neurological status. Assessments can help determine the extent of aphasia by measuring speech and language abilities after a stroke and identify whether a person needs speech therapy. Speech therapy is often an important part of stroke recovery. Speech therapists use exercises to help individuals who have had a stroke rebuild their ability to communicate.
- Assesses physical capabilities — A stroke can have a significant impact on motor function. Strokes can cause muscle weakness, difficulty walking or problems with balance. Some people may have trouble using one side of their body. An assessment can help check muscle strength and coordination, enabling providers to identify when a person needs physical or occupational therapy. Understanding a person’s neurological status can also help them set personal goals. These might include moving farther each day or improving their balance. Outpatient medical rehabilitation may incorporate various therapies for regaining mobility and independence.
- Guides personalized therapy — Every stroke is different. Some people may need more help with speech; others may struggle more with memory or movement. Determining the person’s status can help providers create a custom recovery plan based on their unique needs. Assessments can help providers determine which therapies will be most effective as well as help the person set achievable recovery goals. A person’s post-stroke neurological status can serve as a good baseline for measuring progress. As time goes on, the provider will track milestones in recovery. This can help them see what’s working and adjust therapy as needed.
- Helps restore independence — Medical rehabilitation is meant to help individuals regain independence. A good rehabilitation program can help a person prepare for a return to daily activities. Whether it’s dressing, cooking or going back to work, an assessment can set a clear path for recovery. Informed by the results, the provider may recommend adaptive tools or strategies to make the person’s daily life easier.
Ability KC offers in-depth neuropsychological assessments
Determining neurological status after a stroke is a crucial step in recovery. A neurological assessment helps:
- Identify cognitive, speech, motor and emotional challenges
- Guide a personalized therapy plan for rehabilitation
- Provide families and caregivers with important information
- Restore independence and confidence
Ability KC helps provide stroke therapy for people who have recently left the hospital following initial treatment. We provide neuropsychological testing for strokes, dementia, traumatic brain injuries and more. You can get started with us by applying for an inpatient assessment, enabling you to better understand your condition and get the care you need as soon as possible. You can also get an evaluation once you’re already been admitted to an Ability KC program. Following an assessment, we offer stroke rehabilitation services tailored to a person’s needs. With our range of services, we can offer tailored support each step of the way on the recovery journey.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF). We hold a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment. You can also fill out our Build Your Plan questions to help our team better understand your needs and assist you.