Stroke & Occupational Therapy

Strokes affect people in unique ways and Occupational Therapy works to offer rehabilitation and support services that are tailored to the individual.

What is a stroke?

Strokes can be caused by a blockage to, or a bleed in the brain leading to a reduction in blood supply to a specific area. Without a fresh supply of oxygenated blood, the tissue becomes damaged or dies. The physiological and cognitive effects of a stroke vary depending on the location within the brain. For some, the effects will be minor and a recovery almost complete, whereas for others the effects can be life-changing and mean that they are likely to always require the assistance of others.

What are the common difficulties associated with a stroke?

Strokes effect people in different ways depending on their location in the brain and severity. Common difficulties following a stroke include:

• Reduced mobility - increased or decreased tone in the upper and lower limbs (arms and legs) causing them to be in fixed positions.
• Difficulty with memory, thinking and insight - struggling with driving or walking previously familiar routes, reduced concentration and focus.
• Aphasia – This affects your ability to speak and understand what others say. It can also affect your ability to read and write.
•  Weakness on one side of the body - not noticing things on one side of you, such as an arm or leg, having fallen out of the bed.
• Personality and behaviour changes - The loss of a person’s former identity can result in depression, anger, and frustration.

How can occupational therapy help following a stroke?

Occupational therapists often work with clients and their families following a stroke to help them on their rehabilitation journey or to adjust to a new version of normal. The role of a occupational therapist can vary depending on the needs of the client and can cover both physical and cognitive treatment. Below are some of the ways that an occupational therapist can help following a stroke:

• Environmental changes

Sometimes following a stroke a client's level of physical ability is reduced. This can mean that they home environment can pose significant barriers to their independence and quality of life. An occupational therapist can work with clients to remove these barriers with solutions for the bathroom and toilet, accessing both floors of the property and getting in and out of the property if a wheelchair is being used.

• Equipment

Carefully selected specialist equipment can provide significant assistance to clients and their carers following a stroke. Whether it be wheelchairs, armchairs, beds or hoists, the right equipment can reduce risk and maximise a client's independence.

• Rehabilitation

Occupational therapists work with clients to set and achieve rehabilitation goals. For some, this may be to get themselves washed and dressed independently and for others, to return to shopping and preparing meals or to paid employment.

Occupational therapy is an essential step along the road to recovery after stroke.