PubMed · 1997 · 15 citations · 0 references
MedicineGeriatric MedicineRehabilitation MedicineFunctional RestorationRehabilitationStroke RehabilitationBladder RehabilitationContinence RehabilitationFunctional Independence TrainingMotor RecoveryNeurological RehabilitationPostoperative RehabilitationChronic Stroke RehabilitationElderly Stroke PreventionFamily EducationMotor Recovery After StrokePost-stroke ComplicationsPost-stroke Mobility RehabilitationPost-stroke RecoveryRecurrent Stroke Prevention
Mortality and morbidity are high in elderly stroke patients. Early mobilization and prevention of stroke-related complications improve their ability to participate in a more intense and comprehensive rehabilitation program. An interdisciplinary approach to stroke rehabilitation restores functional loss, improves quality of life, and decreases long-term economic costs. Important parts of stroke rehabilitation include patient and family education, treatment of stroke-related complications, and prevention of recurrent stroke. A healthy and caring spouse, continence of bladder and bowel, and ability to feed oneself are the most positive predictors of stroke outcome.