Maia Fergus-O’Grady, registered dietitian at apetito, highlights the urgent need for improved stroke rehabilitation in care home settings
Currently, over 100,000 people suffer from strokes each year – as a result, there are now approximately 1.3 million stroke survivors living in the UK.1 Around 59 per cent of strokes occur in older adults (aged 65+), though Public Health England data suggests the average age of those having a stroke is decreasing.2 This, combined with an ageing population, points towards strokes becoming more of a prominent health concern in future.
Deaths related to strokes have dropped by around half in the past 15 years.2 However, stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability in the UK, with over two thirds of patients being discharged from hospital with a long-term impairment.3
A prospective cohort study undertaken in 20214 showed survival rates of stroke survivors improved for those discharged to their own home, but not for those discharged to care homes. Differences in the care given at home versus in a care home setting were also noted, highlighting an urgent need for improved rehabilitation in care home settings.
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