Improving quality of life for stroke survivors

Stroke survivors experience conditions such as paralysis, inability to move a part of their body, or weakness. Robotic therapy can come to their help, says the author

- DR POONAM BAJAJ

Having a stroke or a brain attack is a life-changing event. Unlike a heart attack or a cardiac event, the individual reaches the hospital quickly and survives the episode. They can leave the hospital after discharge and slowly resume their lives with some lifestyle changes.

Impact on day-to-day activities

Individuals with a stroke are usually discharged from the hospital once they are medically stable, but most are left with some amount of limb and body weakness. They are generally wheeled out of the hospital in a wheelchair with an accompanying caregiver or nurse because they cannot physically look after themselves or walk normally. Sometimes they are unable to speak and  swallow normally.

A stroke can also affect memory, attention span, and personality. The next few months or years are dedicated to neurological rehabilitation for many individuals afflicted with stroke. Resuming life as it was before the event is a dream or a goal. Hence, saying that stroke significantly impacts the quality of life is an understatement. Being unable to walk, talk, swallow, and sometimes even comprehend is a massive adjustment for stroke survivors and their immediate family members.

Neurological rehabilitation