Stroke Connection - Spring 2017

Know Your Story.

Know Your Power.

Know your family history.

Know the red ;ags of heart disease and stroke, which kill 1 in 3 women.

Know that together, we can change the odds.

Take the ;rst step.

Schedule your annual Well-Woman Visit with your doctor today.

GoRedForWomen.org

TM Go Red trademark of AHA, Red Dress trademark of DHHS.

The most important thing for a survivor to do to promote continued recovery, maintain function and prevent compensation when recovery is still possible is to be open with their therapist. Providing them with information regarding their personal goals in order to make gains that are meaningful to them. Also, informing the therapist on their response to the exercises they have been given will increase the likelihood of compliance with these exercises, resulting in continued progress.

One thing that survivors can do to maintain their goals
outside of therapy services is to participate in community-
based programs. Here at Kessler we have group fitness
classes that allow individuals to work with other survivors
who can provide encouragement and support along the
way. I think these programs are great from not only a social
aspect but also to keep people motivated and on their feet
when they may no longer have the opportunity to continue
with therapy or in addition to therapy.

For survivors who feel as though they aren’t progressing or, in fact, are regressing, remember how vastly different a rehab setting is from home and that perhaps what you are experiencing isn’t truly regression but instead adapting to a new environment. A good way to maintain your goals is to continue to set goals for yourself, just like you did in rehab, and keep working toward them. Additionally, joining an age-appropriate stroke support group could be beneficial in helping you stay on track and motivated.