Help and support following a Stroke

The long term effects of a stroke vary from person to person. Nevertheless it is a major event in anyone’s life and the emotional consequences can last for many months. A range of emotions - anger, anxiety and frustration – are common and it is important to seek help if you find it difficult to cope.

The health professionals and social care staff involved in your care also recognise this and can discuss and agree with you, the support you need to regain your confidence, make daily living easier and regain as much independence as possible.

If your partner will be providing support when you come home, they are entitled to a carer’s assessment. This can identify any help they need to care for you.

The Stroke Association has a comprehensive website, a wide range of publications that address the medical, emotional and practical consequences of having a stroke. They also have a telephone helpline and local Life After Stroke services. These may vary across the country but aim to offer practical help and a chance to meet other families whose lives have been touched by a stroke.  You can find out more from their website or by calling the helpline.

Financial support

If you need help with personal care or watching over to make sure you are all right, you may be eligible to claim a non means tested benefit – Disability Living Allowance if you are under 65 or Attendance Allowance if you are 65 and over.
You can find out more about these and other benefits you may be entitled to claim in the Age UK Guide (title to be confirmed) or by calling Age UK

Further information

DirectGov
Website: www.direct.gov.uk
This website has useful information under the headings ‘money, tax and benefits’
and ‘caring for someone’.

NHS Choices website:
www.nhs.uk
You can find information about stroke – risk factors, symptoms and treatment in the Health A-Z section.

By following the link below, you can find out what to expect from the NHS to help you manage a long term condition such as a stroke. A further link takes you to information about Living with a stroke and where to find further support.
http://www.nhs.uk/Planners/Yourhealth/Pages/Healthcare.aspx

NICE guideline CG68 Early assessment and treatment of people who have had a stroke or TIA.
Website: www.nice.org.uk/CG68
Orderline: 0845 003 7783
Look for a patient version of any Guidance document. You can find it under the heading – NICE guidance written for patients and carers.

The Stroke Association
www.stroke.org.uk   
Helpline: 0845 303 3100 (lo-call rate)
The Stroke Association is the only UK charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages.