Stroke

Inpatient rehabilitation helps stroke patients achieve the highest level of function possible and allows them to adjust to any mental and physical changes they may have after a stroke. Inpatient rehabilitation can also help the patient relearn skills that were lost or weakened after the stroke.

Most important, the quicker you enter rehabilitation therapy, the better chance you have of recovery. In fact, it has been shown that the sooner a person starts inpatient rehabilitation, and the more time they spend on therapy each day after an illness or injury, the better their recovery is likely to be.

Results may vary by individual patient and facility.

According to a study by Medicare, patients who receive inpatient rehab therapy do much better at discharge.

Our inpatient rehabilitation program was designed by experienced stroke-recovery experts. Your care will be provided by a specialized team that understands your individual situation and goals. Your team will work with you and other healthcare professionals involved in your care to develop a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and recovery. Your program will include:

• A dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and physical, occupational and speech therapists
• The latest in treatment technology
• Programs to help you smoothly transition back home or to your next level of care
• Living quarters arranged to be similar to your home environment
• Education and training for patients and family members

When you first arrive, we'll assist you in getting settled into your room and becoming familiar with all aspects of our inpatient rehabilitation program. After that, you may be asked to participate in a series of evaluations to help us get more familiar with you and your specific needs. These assessments will be an important part of putting together your personal goals and treatment plan and getting you started on your road to recovery.

Most patients receive a minimum of three hours of therapy each day for at least five days a week. Therapy takes place in individual and group settings, and sessions are scheduled for various times throughout the day. We encourage your loved ones to be part of your rehabilitation program, and to offer encouragement and observe therapy sessions. With your permission, family members are also welcome to speak with staff and ask any questions they may have about your progress.

You'll have a specialized care team of rehab experts who meet regularly to discuss your progress, plan your therapy sessions, and help you reach your goals. The team includes:

• Doctor
  Your physician has specific experience in rehabilitation medicine and will coordinate your overall treatment program. You will have regular access to him or her.
• Physical Therapist
  Your physical therapist will coach you through exercises designed to help improve your balance, strength, and endurance. Physical therapists will also work with you to decrease pain and improve range of motion, mobility, and functional skills.
• Occupational Therapist
  Your occupational therapist will help you become more independent by teaching you new ways to perform daily tasks, including bathing, dressing, eating, and preparing food, so that we can help you return to a more normal daily routine.
• Speech-Language Therapist
  Your speech therapist will help you work on your communication, memory, hearing, and problem-solving skills. If you have difficulty swallowing, the speech therapist will also address this.
• Rehabilitation Nurses
  A team of rehabilitation nurses will work together to provide around-the-clock personal care. They're also an excellent resource of information for you and your family during your stay with us.
• Case Manager/Social Worker/Discharge Planner
  Your case manager and/or social worker and/or discharge planner (varies by facility) will work together to help you find the services you need, create plans for your treatment and recovery, and help you complete a safe transition from the inpatient therapy program to home.