6 ways rehabilitation may improve quality of life after hemorrhagic stroke

Think of the brain as a complex city with a network of roads (blood vessels) carrying vital supplies (oxygen and nutrients) to different neighborhoods (brain regions). A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This type of stroke contributes to up to 20% of strokes each year. When a vessel bursts due to a hemorrhagic stroke, it causes bleeding and damage to the surrounding tissue, which can lead to challenges with:

  • Mobility
  • Speech and swallowing
  • Cognitive difficulties 
  • Emotional struggles

The good news is that with prompt medical attention and personalized and dedicated rehabilitation, many people who experience a hemorrhagic stroke can regain a significant amount of function and improvement in their quality of life. 

6 ways outpatient rehab can help pave the way for a better life

Rehabilitation after a hemorrhagic stroke isn’t just about regaining physical skills. It’s also about empowering people to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life. Here are six ways stroke rehab can help make a real difference in a person’s quality of life:

  • Increasing mobility and independence — Physical and occupational therapy can help people regain more control over their movements. These therapies may involve practicing walking with an assistive device, getting in and out of bed, or using adaptive equipment for everyday tasks. Increased mobility can allow people to participate in activities they enjoy, like going for walks, cooking or spending time with their loved ones. 
  • Enhancing communication — Speech therapy can help people recovering from strokes to regain their ability to speak more clearly and understand others better. Improved ability can help them express themselves effectively, connect with friends and family, and maintain their social life. 
  • Improving cognitive function — Cognitive rehab exercises a person’s brain and can help them relearn lost skills like memory, problem-solving and organization. This can help them to improve their ability to manage finances, follow recipes or even return to work. 
  • Reducing stress and anxiety — A stroke can be overwhelming, but rehab can help people learn to develop healthy coping skills to manage their stress and anxiety. These skills can help them to improve their overall well-being and emotional resilience. 
  • Boosting confidence and self-esteem — Learning how to navigate daily life again after a stroke can be challenging. Rehab can help people celebrate their achievements, no matter how big or small. This sense of accomplishment can help boost a person’s confidence and self-esteem, empowering them to live a more fulfilling life. 
  • Reducing risk of complications — Stroke rehab can help reduce complications like muscle stiffness, pneumonia and blood clots. Reducing these complications can help improve a person’s overall health. 

Rehabilitation takes time, patience and hard work. With the right support system and a dedicated outpatient medical rehabilitation program, a person recovering from a stroke can see significant improvements and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy. 

Stroke rehab programs and services

Stroke rehab is a collaborative effort between the person recovering from a stroke, their doctor, their therapists and their loved ones. Specialties involved in a rehabilitation journey for stroke recovery may include:

  • Assistive technologyDevices like grab bars, walkers and dressing aids can make doing activities of daily living (ADLs) safer and easier, which can help promote independence. 
  • Aquatics — Aquatic therapy offers a low-impact environment that can help improve strength, coordination and balance. It can also help reduce pain and stiffness.
  • Case management — A case manager coordinates a person’s care plan. Coordination can help ensure that a person receives all their necessary services and is connected to appropriate resources.
  • Driving evaluation and training — Therapists can assess a person’s driving skills and recommend adaptations to their vehicle or provide training to help get them back behind the wheel safely. 
  • Education — Learning about stroke risk factors, self-care techniques and medication management can help empower people to actively participate in their recovery. 
  • Employment services — Specialists can help people identify suitable work options, advocate for workplace modifications and develop strategies for a return to work. 
  • Neuropsychology and psychology — These professionals can assess cognitive function and mental health, providing therapy for memory, attention and emotional challenges. 
  • Nursing — Nurses provide vital medical care, monitor a person’s condition and offer support with activities of daily living. 
  • Occupational therapy — Occupational therapists can help people relearn how to perform ADLs like bathing, dressing and cooking. Adaptations can be made based on their new abilities. 
  • Patient representative — An advocate can help ensure that a person’s rights are respected and help them navigate communication with healthcare providers.
  • Peer mentoring — Connecting with others who have had a stroke and successfully completed rehab can offer emotional support, motivation and practical tips. 
  • Psychiatry — Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges that can arise after a stroke. 
  • Physical therapy — Physical therapists focus on improving mobility, strength, coordination and balance. Improving these skills can help a person walk, climb stairs and perform everyday tasks more easily. 
  • Social work — Social workers can help address social and emotional needs. They can help people get connected with support groups, disability benefits and community resources. 
  • Speech and language pathology — Speech and language therapists work on regaining communication skills like speaking, understanding, swallowing and writing.
  • Therapeutic recreation — This can help people reengage in hobbies and leisure activities, promoting social interaction and overall well-being. 

Stroke rehabilitation at Ability KC can help individuals recovering from a stroke reclaim their quality of life

At Ability KC, we understand the frustration and challenges that recovering from a hemorrhagic stroke can bring. We have stroke rehabilitation programs that are personalized to each individual’s unique needs and concerns. With over 75 years of experience serving individuals with disabilities, we can help guide every step of stroke recovery. Our team of dedicated professionals can help with regaining independence, confidence and the ability to participate fully in life. 

Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF) with a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.