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Adult rehabilitation

Occupational Therapy After Stroke and Everyday Self-Care

Written by Owoyomi Adegboyega, OTR — Lead Therapist

2 min read

An older woman in a pink blouse smiles with her eyes closed, resting her hand on a companion's arm.
Photo: Junior REIS on Unsplash. Stock image; the people shown are not Flashcells clients or staff.

Occupational therapy after stroke in Lagos can address difficulties with washing, dressing, eating and other everyday activities. The assessment should identify which parts are difficult and why. Independence may mean doing a task differently, using suitable equipment or participating in more steps with less assistance.

Describe a whole routine

Choose a task such as getting dressed and explain what currently happens from start to finish. Where does the person need physical help, reminders or extra time? Include what they can already do and what feels most important to regain. This is more informative than describing the task as simply impossible.

NICE recommends occupational therapy for relevant daily living difficulties after stroke, using restorative or compensatory approaches. The choice depends on the person's needs. A strategy aimed at rebuilding an ability and a strategy that changes how a task is completed may both have a place in rehabilitation.

Ask for demonstration and practice

If a technique or aid is recommended, ask the therapist to show how it should be used and who needs training. A device is not automatically safe because it is marketed for stroke recovery. Family members should understand how to assist without taking over every part of the activity.

Discuss privacy and preferences during personal care. The adult receiving help should have a say in timing, clothing and who assists where possible. Respectful care remains important when a person needs substantial support.

Review a meaningful outcome

Track the selected task and the assistance required. A useful change may be completing one step, communicating a choice or needing fewer prompts. Review the plan when progress stalls or health changes, rather than assuming the person is not trying hard enough.

Contact Flashcells to discuss occupational therapy within an adult rehabilitation plan. An assessment can help clarify realistic daily living goals and the support needed at home.

Next step

Read more about Adult Neurorehabilitation or how to get started. Availability and the most suitable setting are confirmed when you enquire.

Phone or WhatsApp +234 808 061 7621 · contact@flashcells.com

Sources and further reading

Not sure where to begin?

A free consultation call is a chance to talk through your concern and the most suitable next step. It is not a clinical assessment.