Accessing rehabilitation after stroke – a guessing game?

Whilst further research is required to assist in determining the right time for people to benefit from formal rehabilitation this gives the impression that one dose of rehabilitation at a specific time will meet all needs. It is likely that a rehabilitation pathway identifying features required in the early stages following stroke as well as that required over many years in order to prevent readmission, maintain fitness and prevent secondary sequelae such as depression and social isolation would be beneficial. Implications for Rehabilitation The potential of a patient to benefit from rehabilitation may be overlooked due to other pressures. Some patients following a stroke will demonstrate potential to benefit from rehabilitation later than the majority and this is not always easy to predict. Regular reassessment is required in order to identify whether an individual will benefit from rehabilitation at a particular time.