New Stroke Guidelines Urge Early, Lifelong Rehabilitation

Stroke treatment and recovery are time-sensitive: people who recognize warning signs should call 911 promptly, and rehabilitation should ideally begin within 48 hours once they are medically stable. Recovery can continue for months or years and involves more than relearning skills; survivors may need to adapt to new challenges, rebuild routines and find renewed purpose. The American Stroke Association recommends personalized rehabilitation plans developed with a coordinated health care team, with goals focused on independence and quality of life. About 800,000 people in the United States experience a stroke each year.