Stroke.

Advanced age is one of the most significant stroke risk factors. 95% of strokes occur in people age 45 and older, and two-thirds of strokes occur in those over the age of 65. 

The results of stroke vary widely depending on size and location of the lesion.  Dysfunctions correspond to areas in the brain that have been damaged.

Stroke rehabilitation is the process by which patients with disabling strokes undergo treatment to help them return to normal life as much as possible by regaining and relearning the skills of everyday living.

Most return of function is seen in the first few days with almost all improvement occuring in the first six months. However, patients have been known to continue to improve for years, regaining and strengthening abilities like writing, walking, running, and talking. Daily rehabilitation exercises should continue to be part of the stroke patient's routine.

A standard means of evaluating the stroke patient at discharge from rehabilitation is the Barthel Scale.   A score below 16 (out of 20) would require strong spousal support or equivalent to age-in-place.

Based on the Barthel Scale, independent living products that may be needed are a cane, a walker, a rollator, portable wheelchair, shower/transfer bench, raised toilet, exercise equipment, lift chair, adjustable bed, and speaker phone and emergency call device.