Support with Washing, Dressing and Meal Preparation

Helping you safely rebuild everyday skills and become as independent as possible after returning home from hospital.

After a stroke, everyday activities can become more challenging. The Integrated Community Stroke Service (ICSS) provides short-term support at home to help you regain confidence with personal care and preparing simple meals while working towards greater independence.

Every rehabilitation programme is tailored to your individual needs and recovery goals.

Why Might I Need Support?

A stroke can affect both your physical abilities and the way your brain processes information.

You may find everyday tasks more difficult because of problems with:

• Moving your arms or legs
• Getting in and out of bed or a chair
• Standing, walking or using stairs
• Balance and coordination
• Vision
• Memory and concentration
• Planning and organising tasks
• Recognising or handling everyday objects

These difficulties are common after a stroke and often improve with rehabilitation and regular practice.

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How We Can Help

Our team will work alongside you to practise the activities that are most important to your daily life.

This may include support with:

• Washing and showering
• Getting dressed
• Preparing simple meals and drinks
• Safe movement around your home
• Building confidence with everyday routines

Rather than doing everything for you, we’ll encourage you to do as much as you safely can, providing support only where it’s is needed.

Our goal is to help you become as independent as possible.

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Building Your Independence

Rehabilitation is most effective when everyday activities become part of your therapy.

Your therapists may help by:

• Teaching new ways of completing tasks.
• Breaking activities into smaller, manageable steps.
• Recommending equipment to improve safety and confidence.
• Helping you practise daily routines.
• Working with your family or carers to support your recovery.

Small improvements each day can make a significant difference over time.

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Equipment That May Help

Depending on your needs, we may recommend equipment such as:

• Shower chairs
• Toilet frames
• Commodes
• Specialist chairs or beds
• Kitchen aids
• Memory prompts or reminder aids

Any equipment provided will be chosen to support your safety and independence at home.

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What We Don’t Normally Provide

Our rehabilitation visits focus on helping you regain everyday skills.

We do not routinely provide support with:

• Cleaning
• Laundry
• Shopping
• Managing money or paying bills
• Taking out household rubbish
• Collecting prescriptions

However, if one of these activities forms part of your rehabilitation goals, your therapy team will discuss this with you.

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Medication Support

It’s important to know that ICSS staff providing washing, dressing and meal preparation visits do not routinely manage or administer medication.

Before you leave hospital, your healthcare team will work with you to ensure an appropriate medication plan is in place.

If you have any concerns about managing your medication, please discuss them before your discharge.

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Supporting Your Recovery

Recovery takes time, and everyone progresses at their own pace.

You can help your rehabilitation by:

• Practising tasks regularly between visits where it is safe to do so.
• Accepting help when needed while continuing to do as much as you can independently.
• Taking your time and avoiding rushing.
• Resting when you feel tired, as fatigue is common after a stroke.
• Celebrating small achievements—they are important milestones in your recovery.
• Asking questions if you’re unsure about any part of your rehabilitation programme.

Everyday practice is one of the most effective ways to rebuild confidence and independence.

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Working with Family and Carers

Family members and carers play an important role in your recovery.

With your permission, we can:

• Explain the safest ways to support you.
• Demonstrate techniques for assisting with daily activities.
• Recommend equipment and adaptations.
• Help everyone understand your rehabilitation goals.

Working together helps create a consistent approach to your recovery.

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Contact Us

If you have any questions about your rehabilitation visits or what to expect, please contact the Integrated Community Stroke Service.

Integrated Community Stroke Service (ICSS)

Telephone: 0300 125 5951