Living with stroke

If you, or a loved one, has had a stroke, you probably have a lot of questions about what lies ahead in the short and long-term. The Heart and Stroke Founadtion has plenty of helpful information and advice for people who have survived a stroke, their families and their caregivers.

Questions you may have after your stroke

Stroke rehabilitation

Staying healthy

The effects of a stroke can touch every aspect of your life. A stroke does not affect any two people in exactly the same way. That’s why you, and those who care for you, need to find an approach that works.

While every stroke is different, here are some of the most common changes:

Physical changes

• Walking and moving
• Using your hands and arms
• Eating and swallowing
• Bowel or bladder control and toilet safety
• Expressing yourself and understanding others
• Energy level
• Pain

Mental changes

• Memory and thinking
• Understanding sensory information
• Mood and depression

Daily living

• Grooming
  • Dressing
  • Skin care
  • Foot care
  • Hand care
  • Bathing
  • Mouth care
• Household chores
• Recreation
• Driving

Relationships

• Reactions to a stroke
• Sexual intimacy

Last reviewed: August 2009.