A recent article written in the Centre for Research in Rehabilitation1, discusses the use of Self Management after stroke. Self management is defined as “the individual’s ability to manage the symptoms, treatment, physical and psychosocial consequences and lifestyle changes inherent in living with a chronic condition”(1, page 1). It not only empowers the stroke survivor, but also provides a more personalised rehabilitation. The article recommends that independence in self management is best facilitated, when the patient receives “Professional Guidance” in the initial stages of stroke recovery, in the first 6 months or so.
Self Management involves working out what you need and actively pursuing it. This can be done in the form of goal setting. By breaking down the major goals E.g. living independently, learning how to walk safely unassisted, into smaller, more manageable targets which accumulate toward ultimate goal attainment!
In the UK, there is a successful self management program called Bridges, specifically targeted at people who have suffered from a stroke. In Brisbane, a program called STEPS, was developed in 2006 principal targeting at confidence building, leadership training, and the reclaiming of autonomy in life. A group called – “Drive Your Own Recovery” held at various Brisbane hospitals is another program specifically designed to enable stroke survivors tackle those apparently unreachable goals. Other programs may also be found on the Stroke Association website. Our mobile physiotherapist is trained in administering the “Bridges” program. Our in-home OT also has plenty of tips on the very topic of self management. Call us on 1300 4 MY REHAB (1300 469 734) and inquire about our in-home / mobile physiotherapy and occupational therapy services to help you or someone you know on Alternately, if you have any questions specific to STEPS email info@myrehabteam.com.au and subject the email to ‘Mili’.
Sources:
Article: “From dictatorship to a reluctant democracy”, Centre for Research in Rehabilitation, School of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, London, UK http://informahealthcare.com/doi/pdf/10.3109/09638288.2013.776645
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“Bridges” http://www.bridges-stroke.org.uk/
“STEPS” http://www.health.qld.gov.au/abios/steps/
National Stroke Foundation http://strokefoundation.com.au
Stroke Association of Queensland Inc http://www.strokeqld.org.au/landing/
