Stroke Recovery: Returning To Work?

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and a significant change. While strokes are often associated with the very elderly, about 20% of strokes occur in people of working age, and many find themselves abruptly removed from the workforce. The recovery process is different for everyone, and some may return to work within a few weeks, while others may take months or years. It depends on the severity of the stroke, the type of care and support received, and the impact on the individual's physical and mental health. Planning ahead, seeking support, and setting realistic goals can help individuals manage their return to work.

Planning your return to work

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and planning ahead can help you through the process. Here are some tips on planning your return to work:

Think about a phased return

This means a gradual return to work, starting part-time and building up to full-time hours. This will help you ease back into work gently and manage any fatigue. Remember that returning to work might affect certain benefits you have been claiming, so be sure to inform the relevant authorities of any changes to your circumstances.

Travelling to work

Consider whether you will need support with your journey, especially if you have a physical disability or sight loss. You could try the journey on a non-work day to see how you manage and explore alternatives such as working from home or accessing funding for travel. After a stroke, there is a minimum one-month period where you are not allowed to drive, and even after that, depending on the type of stroke and your licence, you may not be able to drive for a longer period.

Access support

If you have an occupational therapist, they can advise on the work you were doing before your stroke and help set realistic goals for your return. They can also recommend aids or equipment that may be useful. Your employer may also have an occupational health service to support staff returning to work after illness. You may be able to access a specialist vocational rehabilitation professional through your employer or local authority.

Create a return-to-work plan

This is a plan of action that details your support needs following a stroke. It should include information about the effects of your stroke, your tasks, and your hours of work. Focus on what you can do rather than what you can't, and work with your line manager or HR officer to identify practical solutions. For example, if you used to drive for a living, you may now need support with career changing and job seeking.

Communicate with your colleagues

You may feel nervous about how colleagues will react to the news of your stroke. Remember, it is your choice whether you discuss it with them, but being open and answering questions can help people understand and be more supportive. Don't apologise or feel embarrassed about any effects of your stroke. Explain what it is and how it has affected you, particularly if the effects are 'hidden'.

Talk to other stroke survivors

Hearing how others have overcome barriers to return to work can help you deal with feelings of isolation and give you ideas on what to do if you experience similar problems.

Changing careers

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and a significant change. It is important to plan ahead and take your time, as every stroke and recovery is different. Many people do return to work, but it depends on the effects of the stroke, the support received, the type of work, and the level of support from the employer.

If you are considering changing careers after a stroke, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you may choose to stay with the same company but retrain or change roles. This could be a good option to ease back into work while still exploring new career paths. Think about your hobbies, skills, and interests, and consider what new job would suit you. You can also look into taking courses or obtaining new qualifications to help you transition into a new career. Be mindful of your energy levels and travel time, especially if you experience fatigue or mobility issues. Start with shorter courses or volunteer work and build up your stamina.

There are various resources available to support your career change. For example, you can access free careers advice from the National Careers Service website. Additionally, most colleges and further education centres offer additional support for disabled students, so don't hesitate to ask for accommodations when applying for a course.

In terms of job hunting, be patient, proactive, and persistent. Tailor your CV to each specific job application, and don't be afraid to ask for reasonable adjustments during the interview process if needed. Remember to focus on your skills, experience, and suitability for the job, and be positive and proactive throughout the process.

• State Vocational Rehab Agencies
• Bender Consulting Services
• The Campaign for Disability Employment
• Equal Opportunity Publications
• Hire Disability Solutions
• Job Accommodation Network
• Office of Disability Employment Policy
• Society for Human Resources Management
• U.S. Department of Labor

Volunteering

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and a challenging transition. Many stroke survivors find themselves unable to return to work, but for those who can, it can be a way to regain their independence and confidence.

There are many benefits to volunteering after a stroke. It can help you explore new hobbies and interests, build new skills or develop existing ones, and meet new people. This can help with feelings of isolation, which are common after a stroke.

When considering volunteering, think about your skills and interests. What do you enjoy doing? Are you a keen gardener or do you like working with the public? Pick something that interests you and that you will enjoy.

If you have difficulty travelling long distances due to fatigue or mobility issues, look for opportunities in your local area or search for remote volunteering roles that you can do from home.

Start slowly, perhaps once a week, and build up from there. Consider your energy levels and any travelling time. You could start with short shifts and gradually increase the length and frequency of your volunteering.

Many organisations offer training for volunteers and will reimburse expenses such as lunch and travel. Ask about the training available and what expenses are covered. It can sometimes take a while to organise a volunteering position, especially if you are working with vulnerable groups, as you may need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

If you are unsure about your abilities and what type of volunteering would suit you, consider reaching out to a Work Coach or seeking Individual Personalised Employment Support (IPES) at Jobcentre Plus. You can also find free careers advice at the National Careers Service website.

Financial support

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and can be a challenging process. The financial impact of a stroke can be overwhelming and unpredictable. Here is some information on financial support for people recovering from a stroke:

Benefits and Grants

In the UK, you may be able to claim benefits such as Universal Credit, which provides payments for people out of work, on a low income, or with an illness or disability. This can help with living costs and housing costs. You can also look into non-UC benefits, illness and disability benefits, and grants and loans for home adaptations and health costs.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

PIP is a benefit that helps meet the extra costs of long-term illness or disability. It is not means-tested, so you can claim it while working.

Council Tax Discounts and Grants

Local councils may be able to provide support through council tax discounts and grants.

Statutory Sick Pay

If you are an employee, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, which is the basic level of sick pay set by the UK government. Some employers may also have insurance schemes or other policies in place to cover sickness pay.

Self-Employed Support

If you are self-employed, you may qualify for the New Style Employment and Support Allowance.

Insurance Policies

Check any personal insurance policies you have, as they may provide financial support in the event of a serious illness or loss of earnings.

Other Sources of Support

There are various organisations that offer advice and support for people recovering from a stroke. These include Age UK, Carers UK, Citizens Advice Scotland, and the Disability Law Service. You can also contact your local Citizens Advice for individual guidance.

Country-Specific Information

For information specific to your country, refer to the following resources:

• UK: Visit the Stroke Association website or call their helpline on 0303 3033 100.
• US: Refer to the American Stroke Association's "Finances After Stroke Guide" and "Insurance Coverage Guide."

Emotional and behavioural changes

A stroke is a sudden and shocking event that can affect every part of a person's life. Most people who have had a stroke will experience some kind of emotional change afterward. These changes can be challenging to adjust to and can impact one's ability to return to work.

Emotional Changes

Emotional lability, or difficulty controlling one's emotions, is common after a stroke. This can manifest as laughing or crying for no reason, with emotional responses appearing out of character or out of context. These changes can be challenging for both the person who has had the stroke and their loved ones. While these emotional reactions usually improve over time, longer-term emotional changes can occur and may be very challenging.

People who have had a stroke may experience a range of emotions, including:

• Irritability
• Grief
• Anger
• Sadness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fear
• Frustration
• Confusion

Existing personality traits may become exaggerated, and people may behave in ways that are out of character. For example, they may:

• Not feel like doing anything
• Be irritable or aggressive
• Act impulsively or without thinking
• Be disinhibited, doing or saying things that seem inappropriate to others

Behavioural Changes

Behavioural changes can also occur after a stroke due to the impact on the brain, which controls behaviour. These changes may include:

• Forgetfulness
• Carelessness
• Inattention

Impact on Returning to Work

The emotional and behavioural changes following a stroke can have a significant impact on a person's ability to return to work. These changes may affect their confidence, motivation, and ability to perform job-related tasks.

Returning to work after a stroke is a big decision and a complex process. It is important to consider various factors, such as individual abilities, socioeconomic factors, healthcare factors, and disabilities resulting from the stroke.

Support and accommodations may be needed to facilitate a successful return to work. This may include vocational rehabilitation, external support from family and colleagues, and adaptations to the workplace environment.

It is crucial to seek help and support to manage emotional and behavioural changes after a stroke. This may include cognitive behavioural therapy, behavioural management training, medication, and support groups.

Frequently asked questions