Recovering From Stroke

Stroke is the largest cause of disability and the third largest cause of death in the U.S. There are more than four million stroke survivors in this country. Many people live for years following their stroke and want to remain as independent as possible.

Our Stroke Program Services Include:

• Wheelchair Mobility and Ambulation
• Balance
• Speech/Language Skills
• Self Feeding
• Swallowing
• Dressing and Bathing
• Medication Administration
• Problem Solving
• Money and Home Management
• Bowel and Bladder Retraining
• Driving Evaluation and Training
• Equipment Needs
• Discharge Planning
• Transfer Training and Strengthening
• Family Training
• Community Reintegration
• Programmatic Treatment

Our multidisciplinary team combines the knowledge of many medical professionals to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Directed by a physician who specializes in rehabilitation medicine, this team includes a:

• Physical Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Pathologist
• Social Worker
• Dietitian
• Nursing Case Manager
• Other health care professionals, depending on each patient’s needs

Inpatient Program

The treatment team works with patients to maximize their recovery, beginning with an evaluation to identify each patient’s needs. Weekly team meetings track patients’ progress and update treatments and therapy goals. When discharge is appropriate, the team meets with the patient and family members to summarize progress and to discuss options for continued recovery once the patient leaves the Elks Rehab Hospital. On the average, inpatients stay for two to three weeks.

Outpatient Program

With continued therapy, stroke survivors can continue to make cognitive and functional improvements after they are discharged from the hospital. In our outpatient stroke program, patients receive a treatment plan based on their needs as recommended by their physician.

Family Involvement

Because family plays a very important role in a patient’s recovery, our Stroke Programs encourage family involvement. Family members and care givers can observe and participate in therapy sessions and learn how to take care of the patient once they leave the Elks. After participating in the program, family members are better prepared when the patient returns home. Family can also assist in developing a specialized home program for their loved one.

Stroke Support Group

Both patients and family members experience major lifestyle changes following a stroke. To help adjust to life after stroke, the Elks Rehab Hospital provides two Stroke Support Groups for patients and families. In addition to group discussion that offers encouragement and support, each meeting includes a brief presentation by a medical expert. The groups are open to anyone whose life has been touched by stroke, regardless of where they were hospitalized or treated. For meeting times and locations, please call 208.489.4558.

Need to Know More?

If you need additional information about the Elks Rehab Hospital, or would like to make a referral, please call our Neurological Program Director at 208.489.4558.