Health professionals

The doctor is the main medical carer for people who have had a stroke

Community rehabilitation services vary widely across the UK. Generally, a person's GP is in overall charge of their medical care when they come out of hospital or if they stayed at home after the stroke. So, make sure the person has an appointment with their GP.

The GP can put you in touch with community health services or local social services, depending on what help is needed and what is available in your area. You can also contact these services yourself.


Community or district nurse

MedicationA community or district nurse may make regular home visits to:

  • help the person with their medication
  • arrange for equipment such as a wheelchair, commode or hoist to be provided through social services
  • take blood-pressure measurements.


Other specialists who can help with rehabilitation at home

Confused

  • A speech and language therapist, for communication and language difficulties, and swallowing problems.
  • A continence adviser, for people who have problems with their bladder or bowels.
  • A physiotherapist, to help with mobility and movement problems caused by paralysis, muscle weakness and poor balance.
  • An orthotist, to help with support and control of limbs using bracing to prevent muscles tightening and improve function.  
  • A dietitian, for advice on a healthy diet, especially for people who have difficulty swallowing, are underweight or overweight, or who have diabetes.
  • An occupational therapist, to help with everyday activities at home, equipment and home adaptations.
  • A community psychiatric nurse, for mental-health problems like depression, mood swings and personality changes.
  • A chiropodist, to help with footcare, especially where there are problems caused by paralysis and lack of movement.


Links
Audio version - Help at home and in the community (2590 kb)
Going to hospital
Returning home
Social services
Disability and sickness benefits
The Stroke Association's Life After Stroke services
How can family help?
Going back to work
Driving