Stroke patients whose family members are involved in their physical recovery are more likely to recuperate quickly and gain a higher level of physical function than those who do not have relative assistance

• Researchers divided a group of stroke survivors into two study groups.
• One received routine physical therapy, while members of the other set participated in a Family Meditated Exercise intervention (FAME).
• Patients received daily therapy sessions either from their family members or outside caretakers to help improve their leg movement.
• The study results showed that survivors in the FAME group were discharged from the hospital an average of five days sooner than those who received routine care.
• Furthermore, the researchers found that FAME members exhibited better performances on a walking test than those in the other group.
• Family members who assisted in the stroke victims’ recovery also reported that they experienced little stress in their roles as caregivers.
• Instead of adding burden to the caregiver, participating in exercise actually enabled the family member to do something practical for their loved one in hospital.

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http://www.drcutler.com/news/family-participation-enhances-post-stroke-exercise-therapy-800447005/