Prognosis and Duration of disabling effects

Rehabilitation following a stroke may take time. Most of a person’s recovery will occur within the first 6 months following a stroke, with the majority of this occurring in the first 12 weeks. Improvement may continue for up to one year especially in younger people. After one year from the stroke further recovery is likely to be limited.

All cognitive disorders following a stroke are considerable obstacles to successful rehabilitation and independent living. Apraxias are especially disabling.

Of those who do not die within a few days following a stroke:

1/3 make a full recovery

1/3 are disabled to some extent

1/3 are severely disabled and dependent

In view of the potential for improvement in the first 12 months it would be reasonable to award for a limited period.

Date of Onset - Less than 2 years - 2 year award (from date of claim)

Date of Onset - More than 2 years - Indefinite award

You may need to consider whether H/R Mobility Severely Visually Impaired (SVI) deeming provisions are satisfied. .

Transient ischaemic attacks (TIA)

The average duration of a TIA is a few minutes with the majority fully resolving within an hour, therefore care and mobility needs are not appropriate.

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.

amended May 2012