Stroke can affect the ability to:
- Concentrate on conversation, reading and watching TV
- Focus on more than one thing at a time
- Process information
- Recall recent or distant memories
- Start, plan and organise a task
- Keep track of the situation or own behaviour (self-monitoring)
- Interpret, understand and adapt to the environment
Strategies to help memory and concentration
- Write things down – use or a calendar or diary to keep track of appointments
- Write a to do list as a reminder
- Do one thing at a time
- Reduce distractions – turn off the TV
- Visual prompts – have medication where you can see it
- Routine– with tasks such as getting washed and dressed. Taking medication at the same time each day, such as at breakfast
Fatigue after stroke
Fatigue can be physical, cognitive and emotional. Stroke survivors are encouraged to plan, pace and prioritise.
Fatigue is very common following a stroke.
- Many people find their first days home challenging due to lack of sleep-in hospital.
- Many people need to sleep during the day in short bursts initially to support with their fatigue.
- Regular breaks are recommended to manage fatigue.
- A good sleep pattern is also encouraged.
- Many people feel as though they are less productive due to their fatigue – regular breaks and planning tasks ahead can support with this in order to achieve what you want to achieve.
Let friends and family know how you are feeling so they can understand and support.
Further information
Visit the following links for more information on sex and relationships following a stroke:
Sex and relationships – Stroke Association
Relationships after brain injury – Headway
And/or contact your local community stroke team
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