Getting Help: Financial Assistance and Free Resources Post-Stroke.
A stroke is a highly stressful experience, not only for the patient but also for their family and caregivers. The stress associated with a stroke can arise from several sources, encompassing both the immediate aftermath and the long-term implications. But, the emotional and financial strain on families and care givers is significant and often times it’s ongoing. The medical expenses associated with stroke treatment and rehabilitation can be substantial, creating financial strain and adding to the stress experienced by families. Stroke victims can experience physical disabilities, such as paralysis, speech difficulties, or mobility issues, leading to a loss of independence and the need for ongoing care.
A friend recently reached out to confide that her father’s major stroke was overwhelming and difficult for her mother. Although her mother prided herself on being a care-taker; the level of physical strength and effort required in taking care of her father was weighing on her. They had run out of the Medicare covered in-home physical therapy and speech therapy sessions and her mother needed to figure out how to transport her husband to out patient therapy.
For stroke patients not covered by Medicaid, accessing free or low-cost resources can be crucial for recovery and rehabilitation and the mental and financial health and wellbeing of the entire family. Tricky Bills has put together a number of resources to help you navigate assistance during this difficult financial time.
National and Local Stroke Associations
American Stroke Association: Offers a wealth of information on stroke recovery, including support groups, educational materials, and a directory of services. There is particular emphasis about the importance of exercise following a stroke.
National Stroke Association: Provides resources for stroke education, recovery, and support for patients and caregivers, including rehabilitation support services.
Community-Based Programs, Local Nonprofits & Government Run Resources
Local Community Centers and Hospitals: Often host free or low-cost rehabilitation programs, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and support groups for stroke survivors. Contact your state’s senior citizen organization and reach out to In Home Supportive Services Department of your local hospital where the patient received care to see what’s available.
Volunteer Driver Programs: Some communities have volunteer driver programs where volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments. These programs may be run by local community centers, religious organizations, or senior centers.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): AAAs provide a variety of services to seniors, including transportation services. They can also direct stroke survivors to local resources, including home-based care, transportation services, and support groups. They can assist with arranging rides to healthcare appointments and may have resources or partnerships with services that help with mobility challenges.
United Way: By dialing 211 in the United States, stroke patients can connect with local services, including rehabilitation, counseling, and support services.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIP offers free, unbiased health insurance counseling. Counselors can help identify local transportation and care giving resources covered under Medicare or other programs.
Public Transit: Local public transit systems may offer reduced fares or special services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including paratransit services that provide door-to-door transportation.
Veterans Affairs (VA): If the patient is a veteran, they may be eligible for transportation assistance through the VA for medical appointments.
Online Resources and Support Groups
Stroke Support Groups: Both in-person and online support groups can offer invaluable resources, sharing experiences, and recovery tips. Websites like Stroke.org and the American Stroke Association’s website have directories for local and virtual support groups.
MyStrokeGuide: Developed by the Stroke Association, it offers a platform for support and information sharing among stroke survivors and their caregivers.
Rehabilitation and Therapy Services
Local Universities and Colleges: Some universities with physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology programs offer services to the public at reduced rates, provided by students under professional supervision.
Volunteer Health Clinics: Some areas have volunteer-run clinics that offer various health services, including therapy, at low or no cost.
Financial Assistance Programs
Patient Advocate Foundation: Provides patients with assistance in negotiating medical bills and finding financial aid for medical treatments.
Partnership for Prescription Assistance: Helps patients who are not Medicaid-eligible find programs to assist in obtaining necessary medications at a reduced cost.
Technology and Apps
Rehabilitation Apps: Various apps are designed to assist with rehabilitation from stroke. While not a substitute for professional care, they can offer additional support for exercises, speech therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation.
Some popular apps that are recommended by Flint Rehab are:“Elevate – Brain Training Games” - memory and Cognitiv function
“Clock Yourself” -helps you think faster on your fit considered pre-habilitation, but for stroke patients, it can make great re-habilitation.
“Calm” - Helps with sleep, post-stroke depression, and anxiety.
“Rehabit” - Healthy habits, physical function, and cognitive function.
“Lumiosity” - Cognitive function and memory
“CT Speech and Cognitive Therapy App” - designed by speech pathologists to help recover speech, language and critical thinking skills.
“Proloquo2Go ACC” - helpful for patients that can’t communicate/talk after having a stroke.
“Language Therapy 4-in-1” - address comprehension, naming, reading, and writing.
When seeking out these resources, it's essential to communicate clearly about the patient's needs and limitations. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider or a social worker can help identify specific programs and services suited to the patient's condition. Stroke recovery is a long process, and accessing the right support can make a significant difference in the patient's rehabilitation journey