Functional independence
Activities of Daily Living
- Our activities of daily living are our essential, basic everyday tasks that make up our day
- To do these tasks, we must have some level of functional independence or support
- Small aids, home adaptations and home support can be beneficial in aiding someone to complete these tasks
- Therapy can support with increasing independence and skill
Equipment and support for independence and self-esteem
- Encourage use of specialist items such as adapted cutlery to help with independent eating and drinking if required
- Simple things like putting the toilet paper on the patient’s unaffected side helps them to be independent
- Loan equipment stores will provide walking aids and pressure relieving mattresses if needed but not chairs, beds etc
- Some charities can help with buying special chairs and equipment for individual needs e.g. SSAFA (Forces Charity)
Splints reduce pain, damage and contraction of hands and wrists
- Check – splint for damage
- Contact – therapist for review/repair
- Encourage – wearing it regularly as prescribed
- Keep clean – with baby wipes or cool water and soap
- Support – arm on pillow after application
Returning to work/education
- A lot of people who experience a stroke are employed or volunteer
- Naturally, people want to get back into their usual routines and back to work/volunteering/education
- This is achievable if you are ready
- Some people rush into it and find it challenging and overwhelming, and others are apprehensive to go back to it
- Support from family and friends can be very beneficial
- Having realistic and honest conversations with your employer can help you have a supportive transition back into work
- For some, a graded integration back into work helps, particularly with fatigue or memory and mood changes after the stroke
- Your therapy team can support with reasonable adjustments within your workplace
Travel after a stroke
Many people who want to go on holiday have queries regarding flying and long-distance travel following a stroke.
Once you have been discharged from hospital and any follow ups have been completed your GP can advise on which travel may be safe.
Depending on the type of stroke and the cause different modes of travel may be recommended.
Most people can fly after a stroke so don’t be afraid to ask.
Getting back to driving
If your problems have resolved within 28 days after your stroke you can get back to driving.
Should you have any ongoing problems 28 days after your stroke you should work with your therapy team and have conversations with your GP about your safety to drive again.
If you do have problems 28 days post stroke it is recommended, you tell the DVLA.
Always tell your insurance company that you have had a stroke.
The most common difficulties which affect driving ability are upper and lower limb weakness, coordination difficulties, sensory changes, visual loss, memory and thinking (planning and risk awareness).
Your therapist or GP may ask you to book in with a driving instructor for a couple of sessions if we feel as though you are safe but need a little reassurance.
Financial Support
Some people may not be able to return to work or may have financial difficulties due to paying for care or buying items to support with recovery.
There is financial aid to support. There is Attendance Allowance – this can be applied for and claimed 6 months after the stroke. Note, it will be rejected any sooner unless you meet specific criteria.
There are teams within social care who can provide financial support in different situations. Personal Independence Payments (PIP) can also be applied for. Speak to your local teams for financial support specific to your area.
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