Stroke Recovery and Support Resources for Patients and Caregivers

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Recovering from a stroke is a journey that continues long after an individual’s initial rehabilitation at an inpatient hospital. Having access to the right support, care and resources can help patients and caregivers navigate each stage with confidence.
As a comprehensive system of care, Brooks Rehabilitation supports patients and caregivers after initial physical recovery. From education and guidance materials and classes to free community programs and ongoing therapy services, there are a multitude of ways patients and families can continue to access all that Brooks has to offer during and after discharge from inpatient care.
In addition to Brooks resources, we also provide connection to nonprofit, federal and state resources available to stroke survivors and their families. This comprehensive guide centralizes this information to help caregivers and patients navigate this new journey.
During an inpatient rehabilitation stay
An inpatient rehabilitation stay can feel overwhelming, but Brooks offers a multitude of support and guidance for both patients and families. Educational resources, including videos and classes, along with emotional support through a therapy dog program, support groups and a chaplain are some of the options available to help patients and families feel more informed and empowered.
- Caregiver education resources
- Therapy schedule in advance
- Patient portal
- Educational videos
- Caregiver support group
- Brooks has a dedicated chaplain who makes rounds at our hospitals. Your care team can connect individuals and their families. To directly contact our chaplain, visit our contact page.
- Educational videos are available on the TV in patient rooms and are made available to caregivers after discharge.
- Stroke education class are available for patients and caregivers at our hospitals. Ask your care team for more information.
- Therapy dogs are on rotation across our inpatient hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Check with your care team to learn more.
Preparing to go home
Returning home after a stroke is an important milestone. Having the right equipment, transportation and support can help make the transition safer and more comfortable.
Through our Temporary Loan Closet and Seating and Mobility Clinic, patients and caregivers can access equipment and expert guidance, including resources for manual and power wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and shower equipment. Find a Ride Florida can also help explore transportation options for the trip home and future needs.
- Temporary Loan Closet – a referral from a case manager is required to access equipment loans. Speak with your case manager to learn more.
- Seating and Mobility Clinic – housed at our university campus hospital, this clinic provides a variety of options for mobility and activities of daily life for pediatric, teens, adults and elderly patients.
- Find a Ride Florida – developed by the Florida Department of Transportation, this resource helps individuals or caregivers find available public and private transportation services in their area across the state.
Continuing recovery after stroke
Stroke recovery doesn’t end at discharge to home. Brooks offers ongoing therapy, wellness programs and specialized services to support individuals as they continue working toward recovery goals.
- Aquatic therapy – access pool-based exercises conducted under the supervision of a physical therapist at Brooks’ University Campus hospital.
- Neuro Recovery Centers – a gym for individuals working toward their recovery goals. Physical, occupational and speech therapists provide support onsite.
- Aphasia Center – a community program offered by Brooks that provides continuing therapy for communication disorders caused by Aphasia.
- Eric Sorensen Motor Speech Program – one of the only motor speech programs in Northeast Florida, this program provides support groups and outpatient therapy for motor speech disorders such as apraxia.
- Adaptive Wellness Programs at YMCA – continue exercising and building strength under the support of exercise therapists from Brooks at YMCAs around Jacksonville.
- Brain Injury Day Treatment Program – intensive 6-hour daily therapy program designed to prepare individuals for home after inpatient rehabilitation.
Supporting daily needs at home
Having the right support can make daily life at home easier and more comfortable. Trusted organizations and community resources can help with everyday needs, including meals, home modifications, financial assistance and disability-related services.
- Florida 211
- Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place Program
- American Stroke Association’s Finances After Stroke Guide
- Florida Disability Resource Hub
- Meals on Wheels America
Finding emotional and caregiver support
A stroke doesn’t just affect one’s physical health but can also affect an individual’s social and emotional well-being. Brooks provides connection to peer mentors who understand the recovery experience. Our experts also facilitate support groups for stroke patients, families and caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges. These and additional resources are available below.
- Peer mentors
- Brooks support groups
- Stroke Family Warmline
- Caregiver Action Network
- American Stroke Association support group finder
Building independence after a stroke
At Brooks, we are committed to helping patients achieve their highest level of recovery and independence. Adaptive sports and recreation programs can help stroke survivors return to activities they enjoy, while the Driver Evaluation and Training Program at Brooks supports a safe return to driving. The Brain Injury Clubhouse provides opportunities to rebuild skills that may have been affected by a stroke.
These resources offer assistive services and vocational rehabilitation to help support long-term independence.
- Adaptive Sports & Recreation
- Driver Evaluation & Training Program
- Brain Injury Clubhouse
- Florida Vocational Rehabilitation
- Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology
Stroke recovery is different for everyone, and an individual’s needs may change over time. Whether needing therapy services, caregiver support, transportation assistance or opportunities to stay active in the community, Brooks Rehabilitation is here to help through services, programs and connection. For even more stroke recovery and support resources, view our comprehensive resource list at the link below.