Stroke occurs suddenly but recovery may take longer. The severity of a stroke depends on the area of the brain affected and the extent of the damage due to the disturbance of blood supply. Unfortunately, some people die within days or weeks as a result of the effects of a severe stroke and others may remain severely disabled and require ongoing care.
However, the vast majority of people will benefit from multidisciplinary stroke rehabilitation during their inpatient stay in hospital and subsequently in the community when they go home. This recovery will be best if people have sufficient rehabilitation for long enough and learn how to manage their own condition.
Recovery can continue for months or even years and most people return to an active and productive life.
Page last reviewed: 30 Mar 2021
