What are some goals you might establish for a patient who has recently suffered a stroke?

"While I have not worked directly with patients who have suffered from a stroke, I am knowledgeable about the disease and would feel confident working with the patient to establish goals. Patients recovering from a stroke typically have one or more affected limbs. One possible goal would be to include Constraint Induced Movement Therapy, which can increase the use of the affected limbs to stimulate the brain and activate neuroplasticity. To practice CIMT at home, I may suggest wearing an oven mitt or a sock over the non-affected limb to help encourage the patient to use their affected limb to prevent complications like muscle weakness or atrophy in the future.

Another goal would be to provide activities of daily living training so the patient could regain their independence. This could include personal care tasks like bathing, toileting, dressing, oral care, and other hygiene tasks. Safety concerns can be addressed in these goals as well as adaptive strategies."

"I have worked with several stroke patients over the years, and there is a wide range of goals that can be chosen to be focused on. Home modifications are important so that the patient can return home safely. This can include installing handrails and non-slip mats in the bathroom, a toilet riser, or a recliner that raises to help stand up and sit down safely. Another goal could be to incorporate and use interactive Neurorehab devices like FitMi or MusicGlove, which are designed to improve mobility and regain function after a stroke.

If a patient wants to return to work, I may also help them establish goals to achieve that ability. This could include making office adaptations like alternative lighting or handrails, teaching them to use ergonomic equipment to reduce fatigue, task simplification, and teaching and practicing proper body mechanics to minimize muscle strain."