Stroke

A stroke can result in a range of consequences. Some people who have a stroke may be mildly affected while others experience significant loss of function. Which activities of daily living are affected depend on the severity of the stroke.

There are numerous changes that a stroke can cause. Below are some of the motor and thinking skills changes that can influence the ease with which daily activities can be completed. Other factors such as visual, sensory, perceptual, communication, and mood changes can also have a significiant impact on daily living.

All of these changes should be addressed by a stroke survivor's doctor and rehabilitation team. Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and/or Speech Therapy can help a stroke survivor more fully regain function as well as learn how to compensate for lost skills in order to participate as fully as possible in daily life. For answers to specific concerns not addressed with these tips, consult a therapist.

Effects of a Motor Disorder

• Total one sided muscle weakness in both the arm and leg to only slight weakness and/or a full recovery. This might affect the ability to put an arm in a sleeve or put your pants leg on. Or it may be that only one hand can be used for buttoning or that grip and pinch are weak Both standing and seated steadiness and balance can be affected.
• Walking impairment that ranges from a total Inability to walk to only a minor limp and/or a full recovery. This might affect the ability to cook and move about the kitchen or get to the phone to answer it.
• Impairment in the ability to transfer safely and independently to and from a chair, bed, or bath. This might affect the ability to take a bath or use the toilet.
• Impaired ability to swallow can affect the ability to suck, chew, and swallow. This might result in an inability to eat by mouth at all or may mean that special precautions need to be taken when eating.

Effects of a Thinking Disorder

• After a stroke, a person may have memory problems. This can affect the ability to follow directions e.g. for taking medications as well as safety awareness e.g. the ability to remember to turn off the stovetop when cooking.

If you have had a stroke, the tips suggested here can help you to more fully and safely complete each of the described activities.