You may be referred to an inpatient or outpatient rehab program. It will be discussed with you as to what is the best place to go based on how you are recovering.
Inpatient Rehab
Recovery from a stroke begins right away. The goal of inpatient rehabilitation is to help you regain as much independence as possible so you can return to live in the community. You may learn ways to do things differently than before.
What will happen?
- While in inpatient rehab, you will:
- Participate in therapy to help improve how you move around, do your day-to-day activities, and communicate your needs.
- Spend time in individual and/or group activities to learn new skills to be more independent
- Practice exercises and complete homework during non-therapy times
- It is helpful to have a family or friend (if available) to support you and work with the team to prepare for a safe transition back into your community.
- As you improve, you may be able to go home on weekends to practice the skills you learned.
- Work with the team to link to services and equipment to prepare you as you leave the hospital
How long will I stay?
- Soon after you have been admitted, the care team will work with you to see how long you will stay in inpatient rehabilitation.
- The length of stay can be from 1 to 7 weeks. It will depend on your rehabilitation needs/goals.
Who might I expect to see and/or work with?
- Nurses
- Physiatrist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
- Speech-language pathologist
- Registered dietician
- Recreational therapist
- Social worker
- Pharmacist
- Other providers as required
Where can I expect to go next in my journey?
Rehab in the hospital will only be a small part of your recovery. Recovery continues after you leave the hospital. The rehab team may suggest further outpatient therapy and/or services in your home or community , depending on your needs and goals.
Outpatient Rehab
Recovery from a stroke is ongoing. The goal of outpatient rehabilitation is to help you to be independent and participate in meaningful activities. Prior to attending outpatient rehab, you will work with your care team to arrange transportation to attend therapy 2-3 times per week (or as decided by you and your team).
What will happen?
- After you go home, you may attend an outpatient program. Appointments will be in-person and/or virtual. You will:
- Participate in therapy to improve your independence, and learn how to manage your health and well-being. Practice what you learned at the rehab sessions in your home and report back to your health care providers
- It is helpful to have a family or friend (if available) to support you.
- You and your family members/caregiver will work closely with the team will decide the activities and exercises that will help you reach your goals.
- You may be assessed for your ability to return to driving or return to work when appropriate.
How long will you stay?
The length of time will be discussed between you and your care team. It will depend on your rehabilitation needs and goals.
Who might I expect to see and/or work with?
- Physiatrist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
- Speech-language pathologist
- Registered dietician
- Social worker
- Other providers as required
Where can I expect to go next in my journey?
You will continue to recover even after your outpatient rehabilitation program is finished. It is important to continue with your home exercise program, and to stay healthy to lower your risk of stroke. Try to do things you enjoy, and be active in your home and community.
Questions to ask yourself in your recovery
As you re-engage in your community, there may be things you need to consider. Click on any image for questions that can help you think about what you need during your recovery.
