Recovery Tips for Daily Living

Getting back to your daily activities may involve occupational and physical therapy. Get tips and find creative ways to get things done.
A senior Black woman and man are walking with their multigenerational family along a nature trail through trees.
A stroke is a life-changing event — physically and emotionally. It can make everyday activities challenging. These challenges may be due to several stroke-related conditions, such as limb weakness, numbness or paralysis, communication challenges, vision challenges and one-side neglect challenges. Getting dressed, making a meal, doing laundry, or staying organized for the week may become big obstacles. Simple everyday tasks may need to be relearned and you may need more frequent rest breaks. Every stroke is unique, and your recovery will be too.

 

Tips for Daily Activities — Save Energy. Simplify. Delegate.

Step-By-Step Videos for Stroke Survivors

Find helpful recommendations for performing daily tasks.

Bed to Wheelchair Transfer
Some survivors may need assistance with transfers. This video might be especially helpful for caregiver or family.

Play the Wheelchair Transfer Tips Video

Laundry
After a stroke doing laundry may become more challenging. Try these tips to make this task manageable.

Play the Laundry Tips Video

Ponytails
Learn how this stroke survivor tackles the challenge of putting her hair up in a ponytail.

Play the Hairstyling Tips Video

Assistive Technology

Advances in technology can be a lifesaver in your day-to-day life.

Personal Care

Grooming can be one of the toughest areas to adjust to after a stroke.
The Simply Good Cookbook and Simplemente Bueno un Libro de Recetas are laying overlapped on wood planks.

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, affects up to two-thirds of stroke survivors.

Our “Simply Good” cookbook was developed for survivors just like you. Each recipe includes modifications for those who have trouble swallowing.

Life After Stroke: Our Path Forward

After your stroke, new routines will become second nature. Rehabilitation is key in rebuilding your strength, capability and confidence. It can help you continue your daily activities despite the effects of your stroke.

Life After Stroke Guide for Patients and Caregivers (PDF)

The Life After Stroke Guide is also available in Spanish.
Guía de la vida tras un ataque cerebral (PDF)