European stroke care guidelines make recommendations for the elements of rehabilitation, although there is not enough evidence to be certain about what exactly the therapies should consist of, how long sessions should last for and how often patients should have therapy sessions or practise themselves. For instance, ESO guidelines (2008)[300] recommend:
Early, coordinated multidisciplinary rehabilitation (on a stroke unit, for acute patients). This includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and communication therapy assessment (speech and language). Individual countries’ national guidelines (where they exist) include similar statements.
Early discharge from stroke unit care if medically appropriate and suitable community rehabilitation is available.
Early assessment of needs after discharge.
Rehabilitation after discharge during the first year after stroke.
