Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have found that safety interventions - such as walkers, grab bars, ramps and other home modifications - allow many stroke survivors to keep living independently in their homes and may reduce their risk of death. Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke, in which blood flow to the brain is blocked.
For the survivors, the ensuing brain damage can lead to lifelong disabilities, making mundane tasks, such as using the toilet and taking a shower, risky ventures. One in eight of those who experience a stroke die within a year of hospital discharge. But a clinical trial led by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St.
Louis has found that modifications to stroke survivors' homes - such as grab bars, shower seats, ramps and other safety interventions - reduce the risk of death within a year or so of leaving the hospital and allow many to keep living independently in their homes. The transition period is a critical time for stroke survivors who go home after weeks in inpatient rehabilitation. The home environment looks different and is more challenging than a facility outfitted with accommodations.
We have found that occupational therapy can make impactful contributions by creating safe spaces that enable stroke survivors to remain independent and in their own homes." Susan Stark, PhD, senior author, professor of occupational therapy, of neurology and of social work The stu.
