#Lifestyle

#Motivation

#Neofect Solutions

#Rehabilitation

Research shows that utilizing virtual reality gaming as a therapy tool has the potential to increase a patient's engagement and motivation in therapy.

Smart Board: Introducing Your Virtual Reach Retraining Tool

Virtual Reach Retraining Tool after Stroke


Research shows that utilizing virtual reality gaming as a therapy tool has the
potential to increase a patient's engagement and motivation in therapy allowing
them to relearn through repetition, reinforcement and immediate feedback. (1)

The Neofect Smart Board [https://www.neofect.com/us/smart-board] puts the
affected upper extremity into a gravity eliminated position and focuses on
repetitive functional movements in order to increase overall range of motion,
coordination and timing through reach retraining activities in a virtual reality
world.



The Neofect Smart Board [https://www.neofect.com/us/smart-board] essentially
turns the patient's upper extremity into an avatar allowing the patient to
participate in therapeutic gaming activities while providing biofeedback. The
Smart Board provides therapeutic gaming activities that simulates activities of
daily living as well as some fun innovative activities. The Smart Board is a
data driven program that though artificial intelligence tracts patients’
progress providing a just-right challenge. Clinicians and patients do have the
ability to manually change the parameters if desired.

Neofect Smart Board
[https://shop.neofect.com/collections/smart-rehab-solution/products/neofect-smart-board] 
is intended for patients with upper extremity dysfunction that are limiting
range of motion and function on a daily basis. Ideal candidates demonstrate more
activation at the top of the arm (shoulder and elbow movement) with little to no
activation at the bottom (forearm and hand. The forearm-supporting handles allow
these users to maximize repetitions of movement within their active muscles
while relieving the weight of the entire arm.


Neofect Smart Board
[https://shop.neofect.com/collections/smart-rehab-solution/products/neofect-smart-board] 
acts as a digital goniometer and measures the patient's range of motion during
all activities allowing the clinician to gather objective results for total
available reach as well as for timing and coordination. Having these objective
measures allows for the clinician to obtain more quantified data to justify
improvements allowing for continued services. Quantified data can also be used
in order to motivate the patient to keep working towards their goal.

To find out more information regarding the Smart Board please visit our website
[https://www.neofect.com/us] or call us.


*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 * Source
   (1) Hatem SM, Saussez G, della Faille M, et al. Rehabilitation of Motor
   Function after Stroke: A Multiple Systematic Review Focused on Techniques to
   Stimulate Upper Extremity Recovery. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.
   2016;10:442. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2016.00442.

Upper Extremity Function

Neofect Smart Board: Introducing Your Virtual Reach Retraining Tool

NEOFECT’s RAPAEL Smart Solutions provide rehabilitation through games for patients recovering from a stroke, brain injury, hemiplegia, and so on.

Smart Rehabilitation Training Games for hemiplegia at home

Neofect [https://www.neofect.com/us]’s Neofect Smart Rehabilitation Solutions
[https://www.neofect.com/us/for-home] provide rehabilitation and training
through games for patients recovering from stroke. Are you curious about the
games? Let's take a closer look at three games available with the Neofect Smart
Glove [https://www.neofect.com/us/smart-glove].



Smart Rehabilitation Training Games
<1> Jewel Pong


Jewel Pong is a game that aims to eliminate all the jewels by hitting the
approaching balls.



Training Methods

 1. Move the platform by using Wrist Flexion / Extension movements. Rally the
    ball back towards the jewels by controlling the position of the platform.
    
    
 2. Once the ball is blocked with the platform, it's sent towards the jewels,
    eliminating them when it hits them.
    
    
 3. Red beads appear when the sparkling jewels are eliminated. Extra balls are
    rewarded by hitting the beads with the platform.
    
    
 4. As you advance to higher levels, the platform moves farther and farther away
    from the center of the screen.
    
    



Training Results

 * Score
 * Play Time
 * Success Rate
 * Wrist Flexion/Extension (Eliminated Gravity) ROM



<2> Rockin’ Beats
Rockin’ Beats tests your memory skills by giving you a rhythm pattern you have
to repeat.



Training Methods

 1. Use forearm pronation and supination to move the drumsticks. If one side
    needs to be repeated, return to the starting position before hitting again.
    
    
    
 2. Remember the order of the instruments shown in the given time. Time varies
    based on the number of instruments shown.
    
    
    
 3. Play the instruments in the order demonstrated. If the order is wrong, it
    will be incorrect. Complete the given task even if you miss one during the
    performance. The same rhythm pattern will be re-shown for a second attempt.
    The number of rhythm patterns varies based on the tasks completed correctly
    or incorrectly. (The score is calculated based on the number of the
    instruments hit correctly)
    
    
    
    
    

Training Results

 * Score
 * Play Time
 * Success Rate
 * Wrist Flexion/Extension (Gravity Eliminated) ROM


<3> Catch Baby Bird
In this game, you're the mama cat. It's up to you to catch your baby bird who is
trying to escape the cat in the tree. This game works on your wrist flexion and
extension.



Training Methods

 1. Using wrist flexion and extension (Gravity Eliminated), you can move mother
    bird to the left or right.
    

 * PROM Comparison
   -Level 1: Moves every time the patient moves 1/6th of the amount
   -Level 2: Moves every time the patient moves 1/8th of the amount
   -Level 3: Moves every time the patient moves 1/10th of the amount

 2. The location of mother bird will be moved depending on the angle.
    
    
    
 3. Safely catch baby bird by moving mother bird.
    
    
    


Training Results

 * Score
 * Play Time
 * Wrist Flexion/Extension (Gravity Eliminated) ROM
   
   

Don’t you think rehab is more fun with a game? But these games are not just
about fun. Each game is scientifically designed to invigorate muscles and
stimulate visual and auditory senses to reinforce neuroplasticity and accelerate
recovery after stroke.

AI built into the Neofect solutions [https://www.neofect.com/us/for-home] 
suggests rehabilitation games based on patients’ preferences and progress,
delivering customized, optimal therapy for patients.

Call us at (888) 623-8984 or email us at info@neofect.com to rehab smarter with
Neofect today.

Digital Rehab

Smart Rehabilitation Training Games for Stroke at home

Stroke rehabilitation is fun with RAPAEL Smart Glove. CES 2017 Innovation Award winner, AARP 2017 Champion, CNN selected 14 coolest tech products.

Stroke Rehabilitation is now Fun!

What is Neofect Smart Glove?
The Neofect Smart Glove is a biofeedback system that includes an exo-glove with
built-in sensors and an artificial intelligence software to help patients with
neurological and musculoskeletal injuries regain their hand mobility.

Sensors embedded in the device transmit data wirelessly via Bluetooth, and the
Neofect software creates game-based training tasks. The immersive games simulate
actions conducted in daily life, and therapists can design specific rehab
programs by combining various games.


The Learning Schedule algorithm automatically adjusts the difficulty level based
on the patient’s range of motion and goals. This ensures the patient stays
challenged throughout training, and at the same time, creates a positive,
encouraging environment. The system monitors the performance data and generates
progress reports.

The Neofect Smart Glove [https://www.neofect.com/us/smart-glove] is now
available to purchase, so stroke victims can work on regaining their hand
mobility in the convenience of their home.

The Neofect Smart Glove has received numerous accolades, including a 2017 CES
Innovation Award, the AARP 2017 Innovation Champion Award, and Popular Science’s
2017 Best of What’s New Award in the Health category.



1. CES [https://www.ces.tech/] 2017 Innovation Award winner
Neofect Smart Glove has been named a CES 2017 Innovation Awards Honoree.
Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of
independent industrial designers, independent engineers and members of the trade
media to hoaor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer
electronics products across 28 product categories.

The prestigious CES Innovation Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Technology
Association (CTA)TM, the producer of CES 2017, the global gathering place for
all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies, and have been
recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976.

Entries in CES are evaluated on their engineering, aesthetic and design
qualities, intended use/function and user value, unique/novel features present
and how the design and innovation of the product directly compare to other
products in the marketplace. Products chosen as CES Innovation Honorees reflect
innovative design and engineering in some of the most cutting-edge tech products
and services coming to market.


2. AARP [https://www.aarp.org/] 2017 Champion Innovation Award Winner
Neofect Smart Glove has been chosen as the winner in the “Caregiver Quality of
Life” category at AARP Innovation Champions Award.



The AARP contest in 2017 has been devoted to innovation in caregiving. Award
submissions were accepted in six categories: daily essential activities,
caregiver quality of life, health and safety awareness, care coordination,
social well-being and transition support.
The annual AARP Award rewards disruptive technologies and groundbreaking
business models which are designed to create intuitive, affordable innovations.
The contest is a celebration of the entrepreneurs of the frontier of change.

“We need to spark investment in what we call Ageless Innovation – innovations
that are universally designed for all people – of any age,” said Terry Bradwell,
AARP’s chief enterprise strategy and innovation officer. “We couldn’t be more
excited to introduce the Innovation Champion Awards to help raise awareness of
products and services that can truly make a difference in people’s lives.”

To learn more about the AARP Innovation Champions Award, visit 
https://innovationaward.aarp.org/innovationaward/.


3. CNN selected 14 coolest tech products from CES 2017
Article quote

> “Neofect Smart Glove reminds us how powerful tech can be. The glove helps
rehabilitate stroke patients through virtual activities like darts and card
games played on a compatible app. It wraps around the wrist, and sensors track
patients' motion and improvement as they progress through therapy. Physicians
and clinics around the world already use the Neofect glove, but it's now
available for patients to purchase”




Articles about Neofect
*CNN Tech - 14 coolest tech products from CES 2017
[http://money.cnn.com/2017/01/06/technology/ces-2017-tech-highlights/]
*CNN Money - Smart glove helps stroke patients rehabilitate
[http://money.cnn.com/2017/01/05/technology/smart-glove-stroke-ces-2017/index.html]
*TechCrunch - Smart canes and wheelchairs among tech empowering the disabled at
CES
[https://techcrunch.com/2017/01/05/smart-canes-and-wheelchairs-among-tech-empowering-the-disabled-at-ces/]
*Mashable article
[https://mashable.com/2018/03/20/smart-glove-therapy/#_ltzWIXOOiqK]


*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]

Rehabilitation at Home

Stroke Rehabilitation is now Fun! Thanks to Neofect Smart Glove

Meet this amazing digital cognitive rehabilitation therapy today.  RAPAEL ComCog is a cognitive rehabilitation program that helps people with stroke, dementia, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors and cerebral palsy so that they can benefit from brain activation and dementia prevention. 

Cognitive Rehabilitation & Digtial Stroke Therapy | RAPAEL ComCog

Neofect's Cognition : Digital Cognitive Rehabilitaion Therapy
Neofect [https://www.neofect.com/us], a medtech company that designs gamified
rehabilitation training solutions for patients with neurological and
musculoskeletal conditions, is bringing its digital cognitive rehabilitation
therapy, Cognition [https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition], to the U.S. The
software, which is already available in South Korea, enhances memory and
response, and seeks to prevent cognitive decline through games. Cognition, a
cognitive rehabilitation program designed for patients recovering from or living
with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, stroke, cerebral palsy, and other
neurological conditions.



“Repetitive exercises are an integral part of cognitive rehabilitation for brain
injuries, but patients find it hard to stay motivated when they’re doing the
same boring activities over and over,” said Scott Kim, co-founder and CEO of
Neofect USA. “Our cognitive rehabilitation software ComCog combats patient
fatigue with fun, engaging brain games and instantaneous feedback.”

Cognition [https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition] cognitive rehabilitation
program includes 20 games that engage patients in activities to hone attention
and promote memory training. Cognition [https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition] 
tracks, measures, and analyzes performance, including total activity time,
reaction time, and accuracy so patients and physicians can objectively monitor
improvement throughout treatment.



Games like “Making Calls” exercise a patient’s memory by recalling numbers
dialed on a phone. The higher the level, the more numbers patients must memorize
and dial back in the correct order. Other games like “Finding a Different
Rabbit” encourage patients to pay close attention and quickly spot differences –
facial expression, color, etc. -- in one of the four to eight rabbits on screen.
The games provide instant auditory and visual feedback to encourage patients to
play more and improve their score, as well as a complete performance evaluation
upon completion.



Patients using Neofect's Cognition [https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition] 
connect via an Android tablet that’s intuitive and easy to use. Built-in
Adaptive Level Control automatically adjusts the game difficulty depending on
the patient’s performance. For example, if a game is too difficult the algorithm
makes the level easier to motivate and encourage patients to continue training.
If the patient is performing well the solution automatically increases
difficulty and adds new challenges like different colors to identify or more
numbers to remember. Therapists can also manually adjust the program and guide
patients on optimal training.

Neofect's cognitive rehabilitation program
[https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition] has been used by more than 200 hospitals
over the past 15 years in South Korea, and is now available in the U.S.

For more information about Cognition [https://www.neofect.com/us/cognition] or
other Neofect smart rehab devices, please visit www.neofect.com
[http://www.neofect.com/us].


*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Cognitive Rehabilitation & Digital Stroke Therapy | Neofect's Cognition

Looking for a convenient and effective rehab solution for stroke and hemiplegic patients?  Meet NEOFECT's RAPAEL Smart Glove today.  It is an amazing digital rehabilitation home care solution for stroke patients and patients with hemiplegia.

Home Care Solution for Stroke and Hemiplegic Patients

The Reason Neofect Develop Digital Rehab Solutions for Stroke Patients and
Patients with Hemiplegia


With a warm heart, Neofect [http://www.neofect.com/us/] develops a rehab
training solution that stroke or hemiplegic patients can use anytime and
anywhere. Here is how it started!

Rehab trainings that help stroke patients and patients with hemiplegia reclaim
their daily lives they have lost. An ordinary life one hangs the wash out,
waters the flowerpot, and goes to grocery. Taking a walk down the street while
talking: the life we take for granted. Yet this routine is a series of
challenges for those who have gone through a stroke or hemiplegia.
Inconveniencies in their lives that have come under the name of disabilities.
Stroke and hemiplegic patients strive to move and talk as they used to before,
putting a great deal of time and work.

These patients all want to receive a consistent rehab training after stroke. Yet
not so many of them complete the training due to the geographical reason, the
long period of time, and the medical expenses piling up.

There are people who are spending days and nights to develop a rehab training
for these stroke patients and patients with hemiplegia. They are Neofect, a
healthcare startup specializing in digital rehabilitation solution.



Neofect’s major rehab home care program for stroke and hemiplegic patients is a 
Neofect Smart Glove [https://www.neofect.com/us/smart-glove], which are equipped
with sensors that react to its game application.
Stroke patients and patients with hemiplegia in need of rehab put on these
gloves and move their hands while watching the gaming screen, so they can
improve the mobility and cognition of their hands. By turning the rehab process
into games, it keeps the patients motivated and encourages them to consistently
follow the trainings, making it easier for rehabilitating at home with no
restriction of space.

Furthermore, with active support from National Rehabilitation Center in Korea,
Neofect has also increased the value of its VR-based rehabilitation routine by
discovering the problems and needs at the actual sites where rehab sessions were
going on. National Rehabilitation Center also verified that compared to the
patient group that followed traditional rehabilitation methods only, the patient
group that used Neofect Smart Glove along with traditional rehabilitation shown
greater improvement in their mobilities.



- For the clinical trials, Fugl-Meyer Assessment and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function
Test were employed to assess mobility, sense of balance and joint function after
stroke.

Neofect [http://www.neofect.com/us/] is a professional rehab solution company
which started out with concerns for the patients and their families. As he saw
the last moments of his father and his uncle when they were passing away due to
stroke, Neofect’s CEO Ho-young Ban keenly felt the necessity of trainings that
could reduce the financial burden for the patients while continuously improving
the rehab’s effect.

Then he started the business with his co-founder who was studying rehabilitation
engineering at that time. And after their constant investment in the R&D, they
finally developed the rehab solution it has today.


Three goals of Neofect [https://www.neofect.com/us]

 1. Make rehab trainings available anytime and anywhere for everyone.
 2. Foster development of rehabilitation equipment for various body parts.
 3. Expand the home-care rehab market in the global market.

Still unsatisfied, Neofect [https://www.neofect.com/us/for-home] is also putting
lots of effort to develop a solution that makes the rehabilitation of more body
parts easier and to build up a solid foundation for overseas markets. This is
NEOFECT’s genuine concern for the patients and their families.
We aim for the warm touches to reclaim the daily lives the patients have lost.


*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]

Hemiplegia

Neofect: The Reason To Develop Digital Rehab Solutions for Stroke Patients and Patients with Hemiplegia

The ability to do these simple tasks reduces dependency on others, improves potential for employment and enhances quality of life. 

How to regain hand grasp and function

Spinal cord injury has been recorded in the hieroglyphs of Egypt. You can
imagine the trauma that might have been sustained by workers of the great
pyramids. This would be one of the first recorded industrial accidents.
Pictorial evidence of urinary catheterization has been recorded by these early
historians. It seems that spinal cord injury and other paralysis have been with
us since the dawn of mankind.

Life after a spinal cord injury can sometimes feel a little hopeless because you
have to rely on someone else for everything, even simple everyday tasks like
feeding yourself or brushing your teeth. Although modern medicine has not yet
found a way to cure paralysis, modern technology is starting to bridge the gap.

Table of contents

 * How to adapt on your daily life
 * Functional devices assist with everyday tasks
 * Neomano: Regain hand function and independence

 How to adapt on your daily life
More than one third of spinal cord injury survivors sustain an injury that
causes damage to the spinal cord in the cervical region and results in
tetraplegia. Most people with tetraplegia remain wheelchair-dependent and
reliant on others for physical care. Limited hand and upper limb function is
often more disabling and of greater importance to them than their inability to
walk. Even modest improvements in hand function can have life-changing
implications. For example, a small amount of finger movement enables a person
with tetraplegia to use a keyboard, press a switch, scratch the face and turn
the page of a book. The ability to do these simple tasks reduces dependency on
others, improves potential for employment and enhances quality of life.
Expanding these activities could be the aim of rehabilitation.



 Functional Devices Assist with Everyday Tasks
Over the years there have been many functional splints and devices created to
assist people with everyday tasks. One of the most commonly used functional
devices is called a universal cuff. A universal cuff can be used in a variety of
ways such as to hold a feeding utensil, tooth brush, or makeup brush, etc.
Depending on the level of the spinal cord injury, one may require a wrist
support splint along with the universal cuff or a mobile arm support which will
provide a gravity eliminated position for the upper extremity, allowing active
movement while utilizing less muscle strength.

Another common practice is utilizing foam to build up objects such as feeding
utensils, tooth brush, or writing utensils. If someone needs a little more
support for writing they may be recommended a functional writing splint such as
a figure eight splint or a Wanchik Writer splint.

There have been many other devices and custom splints created in order to
perform fun activities such as gardening, fishing and painting.


NeoMano: Regain Hand Function and Independence
Soft robotics is an emerging discipline that combines the classical principles
of robotics with soft materials and could provide a new class of active
assistive devices.  Neofect has created a soft robotic assistive device called 
NeoMano [http://neomano.neofect.com/] that helps with hand motions in order to
give people back their hand function and independence while only requiring one
device. NeoMano is a wearable robotic glove [http://neomano.neofect.com/] that
assists with the grasp and release of objects. The glove is a partial-glove
design that enables the thumb, pointer and middle finger to perform grasp and
release motions.

 * Shop now - Neofect Shop
   [https://shop.neofect.com?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neofect-shop]

Actuated by the motor and pulley, the wireless remote control enables the grip
and release of the index & middle finger. When activated, the Grip button flexes
the fingers to provide a gripping gesture. The Release button loosens the wires,
allowing the hand to return to its original neutral position. The wire is highly
elastic, which helps maintain wire integrity despite repetitive winding and
loosening.

NeoMano
[https://shop.neofect.com/products/neomano?variant=32502766927953?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neomano] 
can assist people with everyday tasks such as feeding, writing, exercising, and
daily grooming tasks. People have even rediscovered old hobbies with the use of
NeoMano, like golfing and photography! 



To find out more about the Neofect Hand Orthosis please visit Neofect Shop
[https://shop.neofect.com?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neofect-shop] 
or email us at contactus@neofect.com.

NeoMano

Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between life and death, or the difference between saving and losing vital brain cells that help you function.

Early warning signs of stroke that you need to know

Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death [https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/index.htm] 
in the US, and the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States.
However, most of the population do not know the warning signs of a stroke.

Both men and women can suffer from a stroke, but warning signs may differ by
gender. Strokes
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/can-stress-cause-a-stroke-the-answer-may-shock-you] 
have historically been shown to be more fatal for women although more men tend
to experience them at a younger age.



Why do I need to know the early warning signs of stroke?
Have you ever wondered what it may look or feel like when a person is having a
stroke? A stroke can happen to anyone at any time; it will not stop to think
about whether you are in the middle of working, grocery shopping, or driving.
Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between life and death, or the
difference between saving and losing vital brain cells that help you function.
That is why it is so important to recognize the signs and act quickly.

It is very important to receive medical attention as soon as you exhibit any of
these warning signs as each second is crucial for survival. A stroke is a severe
medical emergency and if a person does not receive medical attention right away
they are at greater risk for permanent brain damage or death.

If a stroke is treated quickly, doctors are able to administer Tissue
Plasminogen Activator (tPA)
[https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejm199512143332401], a medication that
helps dissolve blood clots. tPA can help decrease the amount of damage done
after sustaining a stroke, but can only be administered within 3 hours of
showing warning signs. Therefore it is very important to get help as quickly as
you can in order to allow for the most successful recovery!

The more familiar you are with the warning signs, the sooner you can get help
and the sooner you get help, the higher the chances are of survival.


Early warning signs of stroke
One of the easiest ways to remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke is to
think: BE FAST.

PRINT OUT THE PICTURE BELOW AND KEEP IT IN A VISIBLE SPACE

B - Balance
E - Eyes

F - Face
A - Arm
S - Speech
T - Time


Now let’s break these down one by one to help each one stand out in your mind.

 1. Balance Loss
    This refers to new unsteadiness or difficulty staying upright and in control
    of your body’s position. Some people may experience dizziness that makes
    them feel “weird” like they can’t quite stand up or sit up correctly. Some
    feel as though they can’t quite get solid footing, or that their bodies
    aren’t reacting quickly enough with a change in position or movement.
    Sometimes muscles just can’t quite coordinate or work right while standing,
    sitting, or walking.
    
    This symptom may feel like someone is sweeping the rug out from beneath you,
    or that you are stepping off of a boat and can’t find equilibrium quickly
    enough. Often, people feel the need to grasp at other objects, lean against
    something, or sit down to help with the feeling of falling. It is easy to
    pass these strange feelings off with thoughts like, “I’m just tired from
    things happening in my life, so this must be my body’s response,” or “maybe
    I didn’t drink enough water or eat enough breakfast.” DON’T ignore your body
    when it doesn’t feel right! A change in balance could mean a stroke - call
    9-1-1.
    
    
 2. Eyesight Changes
    If you suddenly have changes in your vision, this may be a sign to take
    action by getting yourself checked out right away. This symptom is not
    referring to the gradual changes that take place as we age, rather sudden
    changes that have no obvious explanation. A change in vision or a change in
    one or both eyes can mean different things for each person. You may
    experience sudden blurriness, double vision, difficulty reading, or
    confusion with written words. This symptom may be more of a
    dizziness-related feeling, with the world spinning around you. When in
    doubt, check it out!
    
    
 3. Face Drooping
    Sometimes when a person is experiencing the start of a stroke, his or her
    face may become asymmetrical or uneven. Often, one side of the face will
    become numb, tingly, or “droopy.” A quick and effective way to check for
    this is to try to smile a big smile while looking in the mirror (or if you
    suspect someone else is experiencing a stroke, ask that person to smile
    while you observe). If the smile is noticeably uneven from one side to the
    other, get help. Another quick check is to try to shut both eyes as tightly
    as you can and have someone check to see if one eye is not closing as firmly
    as the other. Remember, some faces are a bit asymmetrical to start with -
    this symptom refers to something that is brand new for that person.
    
    
 4. Arm Weakness
    Sudden weakness, numbness, tingling, or even paralysis of a body part is one
    sign that a stroke may be happening. This is often most noticeable on one
    side of the body (for example, the right arm and leg). A quick check for
    this is raising both arms at the same time; if one arm drops down or can’t
    be moved to the same height as the other, get checked out quickly. Remember
    that each person experiences a stroke differently: while one person may have
    weakness or a “strange” feeling in her left arm and leg, another may have
    more obvious paralysis, and only in his right arm. If something is different
    or doesn’t feel right, get it checked by a doctor right away.
    
    
 5. Speech Difficulty
    When a person suddenly has trouble talking or understanding a conversation,
    it can indicate the beginning of a stroke. This symptom can also vary from
    person to person and may look or sound like confusion, slurred speech, using
    incorrect words in a sentence, being hard to understand while having a
    conversation, or not being able to speak at all. A quick check for this is
    to ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If he or she can’t repeat 5-6
    words clearly, correctly, or in the right order, get help.
    
    
 6. Time to Call 911!
    The most important part about recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke
    is knowing that “time is the brain.” The faster a person receives medical
    help, the faster he or she can be evaluated and treated. Even if the signs
    or symptoms that were noticed seem to be going away, call 9-1-1 and get help
    right away. Once a stroke starts, a part of the brain is being starved of
    oxygen and brain cells are starting to die. The longer this lasts, the
    longer that part of the brain is being injured, and the greater the effects
    to the rest of the body as a result.





Recurrence of stroke and prevention
If you think you are having a stroke, or that someone near you is having a
stroke, first call 9-1-1 immediately. Tell the operator that you are thinking
stroke, and let the emergency personnel handle the rest. Do not attempt to drive
yourself to the hospital, because there’s no way to tell what other symptoms you
may experience on the way or how safe you will be. If you are helping someone
else who may be having a stroke, make sure the person is safe, (lying down on
the floor to prevent falling!) that you are nearby watching for new symptoms,
and that the paramedics can get to you easily. Strokes are scary, but knowing
when one may be happening and what to do about it is powerful and important for
saving a life.


Having a stroke puts you at further risk for future strokes. It's important to
be aware of the early warning signs and to take active steps to prevent future
strokes.


STROKE PREVENTION STRATEGIES

 1. STOP SMOKING
 2. TAKE YOUR MEDICATION AS DIRECTED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN
 3. STAY ACTIVE!
 4. EAT FOODS WITH LOW CHOLESTEROL, TRANS, AND SATURATED FATS
 5. DRINK ALCOHOL IN MODERATION

Check out more information about how to prevent stroke on preventing another
stroke. [https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/how-can-i-prevent-having-another-stoke]



 * Further Reading: 5 symptoms of a left side stroke of the brain
   [https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/5-symptoms-left-side-stroke-brain]


--

If you have had a stroke and are looking for an effective solution for your
rehabilitation needs, please look into Neofect's line of Smart Rehabilitation
Solutions [https://www.neofect.com/us].

To learn more, please call (888) 623-8984 or email contactus@neofect.com.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not
intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health
providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you
think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Reliance on any information provided by the NEOFECT website is solely at your
own risk.

References

 * Duke Health
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/dukehealth.org]
 * American Stroke Association
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/stroke.org]
 * Mayo Clinic
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/mayoclinic.org]
 * Benjamin, E. J. et al. (2019) Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2019
   Update: A Report From the American Heart Association
   [https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000659]. Circulation
 * Focht, K. L., Gogue, A. M., White, B. M., & Ellis, C. (2014). Gender
   differences in stroke recognition among stroke survivors
   [https://alliedhealth.ceconnection.com/files/GenderDifferencesinStrokeRecognitionAmongStrokeSurvivors-1412955098269.pdf]
   . The Journal of Neuroscience Nursing : Journal of the American Association
   of Neuroscience Nurses, 46(1), 18-22; quiz 22, E1-2. doi:
   http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JNN.0000000000000026
 * Think FAST to recall the warning signs of a stroke. (2014, 04). Harvard
   Health Publications.Harvard Heart Letter, Retrieved from 
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/think-fast-to-recall-the-warning-signs-of-a-stroke
 * https://www.stroke.org/we-can-help/survivors/stroke-recovery/first-steps-to-recovery/preventing-another-stroke/
 * https://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/impact-of-stroke/women-and-stroke/
 * https://www.stroke.org/we-can-help/survivors/stroke-recovery/first-steps-to-recovery/preventing-another-stroke/
 * https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350119

early warning signs of stroke

Not only do many brain injury survivors struggle with physical changes, but they also suffer emotional changes. Here is the best mind health constellation to care your mental health.

The best mental health care after a brain injury - Neofect’s 5 Stars

 What changes happen to brain injury survivors?


How has your life changed after a brain injury? You probably had to make changes
and accommodate yourself to a multitude of once familiar daily tasks like
dressing, washing, cooking, cleaning, shopping groceries, other household
chores, hobbies, work, and/or community reintegration. 


Not only do many brain injury survivors struggle with physical changes, they
also suffer emotional changes. Brain injury survivors are familiar with the
information about physical changes and how to rehabilitate, but some of them are
not aware of their emotional changes. I’ll explain to you some of the major
changes after a brain injury and let you know the best mind health
constellation.


Here are some changes brain injury patients suffer:


 1.  Movement restrictions
    Hemiplegia (complete paralysis of one side of body) and hemiparesis
    (weakness of one side of body) are very common, which result in functional
    and physical deficits. 
    
    Also, part(s) of your body may become weaker and gradually stiffen due to
    the lack of use. This is more prevalent in your hands more than your legs.
    Upper extremity recovery usually takes longer than lower extremity. 
    
    Exercising the weak and/or stiff parts of your body can help improve your
    function and prevent contractures.
    
    
 2. Swallowing problems (dysphagia)
    Are you having difficulties swallowing food? The technical term for this is
    “dysphagia”. It can be improved with proper treatment and/or change in diet
    (make sure to consult with your MD and speech language pathologist (SLP))!
    
    Some of complications occur when you have trouble swallowing food or liquid.
    Sometimes the food passes through the airway, instead of esophagus, and
    blocks the airway, causing you to cough or choke.
    
    Dysphagia can also lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia,
    dehydration, or malnutrition.
    
    
 3. Cognitive impairment
    Brain injury survivors’ cognitive skills, such as alertness, awareness,
    perception, memory, attention span, etc, may be affected. 
    
    Though it is impossible to predict the outcomes, this can be improved over
    time, hard work, and therapy. 
    
    Try not to feel too anxious about it—Let’s beat this together!
    
    
 4. Communication problems (aphasia)
    Do you have trouble formulating speech or articulating words?
    
    Aphasia occurs when the brain injury affects the part of the brain that is
    responsible for comprehending and expressing the language.
    
    Depending on the severity, the loss of speech and language abilities may be
    temporary or long-term. Consult with your SLP, as speech therapy could help
    you with language communication skills!
    
    
 5. Emotional changes
    This is one of the very common symptoms among brain injury survivors.
    
    You may experience emotional changes for 2 reasons:
    1) You may experience emotional changes as you try to cope with the losses
    or aftereffects from the brain injury itself; and/or, 2)the brain injury may
    have damaged the part of your brain that regulates hormones and emotions.
    
    Either way, please don’t blame yourself for the mood swings and depression.
    It is not your fault, and we are here to help you cope with this!
    
    
 6. Other signs
    Visual impairment (trouble with visual processing, neglect or unawareness of
    one side of the visual field, spatial awareness, difficulty identifying
    objects, etc.) and numbness in the limbs may occur.
    

To recap, these changes arise from damage to particular areas of the brain.


Although damaged brain tissue can’t be regenerated, your brain’s ability to
reconnect and recover the functions—neuroplasticity—is possible!




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table of contents

1. What changes happen to brain injury survivors?
2. Why do you need mental care after a brain injury?
3. The best mental health care after a brain injury
4. Conclusion(wrap-up)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Why do you need mental care after a brain injury?
Many go through sudden and uncontrollable mood shifts: like bursting into tears
or laughing involuntarily.


Also, they are concerned if they’ll actually recover because daily progress
isn’t visible to the eye. Oftentimes, needless worries and doubts cloud your
judgment. Feelings of grief may take over or some actually give up on rehab
altogether.


Some worry that others will judge them.

Will they notice my illness? Will I cause discomfort? Will some avoid me for my
disabilities?

These repeated thought patterns will lower their self-esteem and minimize their
social interactions.



There will be temporary downturns. It may feel like you’re getting worse no
matter how hard you try.





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 The best mental health care after a brain injury
"Will this work?”

“I’m not getting better.”

“I want to give up.”


Many brain injury survivors express concerns and frustrations. In fact, the
emotional rollercoaster is a natural part of recovery.


But, you are not alone. We are here to encourage you and help you cope with the
negative thoughts and emotions as you go through brain injury rehabilitation.


Rehabit’s 5 Stars
★Star 1. Embrace the changes.
★Star 2. Slowly but surely, I’m getting better.
★Star 3. Connect with others.
★Star 4. Setbacks only make me stronger.
★Star 5. I can be happy even after a brain injury.



We want you to remember these five elements for emotional wellness as you cope
with brain injury recovery. There will be times where you may feel vulnerable
but let these stars guide you in your day-to-day life as you continue with
rehabilitation.




 ★Star 1. Embrace the changes



Let's begin with Star 1—“Embrace the changes.”


Here’s a comment from “Neofect Support Group”, our Facebook community:



“I had my brain injury a year ago. Lately, I’ve experienced some emotional
changes. I bursted out crying while watching a Disney movie last night. I’m
suddenly feeling sensitive these days. I’ve never been this way before. But
recently, I discovered it’s a common post-injury symptom. Have any of you gone
through it?”


Did you ever feel this way? Unable to hold your tears during a movie, or
laughing unconsciously at something trivial?



The technical term for this condition is called PBA(Pseudobulbar Affect). 


It’s an uncontrollable display of emotions regardless of one’s actual feelings.
Physical damage to the frontal lobe that controls emotional expression causes
these strange outbursts. 


Many suffer from this emotional rollercoaster. These unrestrained and
unintentional expressions of emotions may end up dragging you down to
self-sabotage and depression.

Stop right there.


Remind yourself that this is the normal part of the rehab. It’s a natural
physiological response to the damaged brain following a brain injury.


You are surrounded by your family and friends who care about you. There are also
other brain injury survivors who can relate to you. We, Rehabit, are also here
for you. We will help you develop healthy coping skills.





 ★Star 2. Slowly but surely, I’m getting better
“Am I getting better?”


Many brain injury survivors question their recovery. They look at their stiff
hands and worry if they’ll ever improve. They doubt, then lose motivation, which
may affect their recovery negatively.


Don’t allow these negative thoughts to misguide you. Always remind yourself that
you are better than yesterday. Your body functions are recovering every day.
Your mental health is also improving every day. These are hard facts.


What brain injury survivors need is faith, first and foremost. And let
experienced therapists provide you with quality rehab solutions and trust the
process.


Remember you’re always moving forward even if it’s not visible to the naked eye.




According to therapists, progress may not be visible each and every day even if
we are always getting better everyday in rehab, we're not aware of it because
it’s not tangible.


However, all your efforts and struggles will eventually pay off!


You are getting better.


Walk with us in the Rehabit journey, and you will see your progress in the end!






 ★Star 3. Connect with others


Gilovich et al. (2000) conducted a study on “The spotlight effect in social
judgment”, and found that people tend to overestimate how their actions and
appearance are noted by others. 


In this study, participants had to wear T-shirts they didn’t like while
interacting with others. When the participants were asked roughly how many
people did they think had seen their T-shirts, their answers exceeded the actual
number of people that have noticed the T-shirts that the participants were
wearing.


This indicates that people’s primary focus is on themselves and are rather too
self-conscious to pay much attention to others. 


Many brain injury survivors are self-conscious, and worry about what others
would think about them. They assume that others are uncomfortable around them
because of their physical disabilities, postures and/or awkwardness caused by
injury.


This causes them to be withdrawn and isolated. They struggle, or even avoid
socializing with others in the communities. 


Instead of being worried about what others may think of you and convincing
yourself that you’d rather be alone, step out of your comfort zone and interact
with others! 


Having meaningful conversation and spending quality time with others can be very
helpful. It will also give you a sense of belonging and security when you regard
yourself as an important member of your social groups, such as family, circle of
friends, etc. 


Moreover, others need your support just like you need theirs. Socializing plays
a major role in rehab because it provides social support and motivation in your
journey to recovery.


Have you ever thought — “I’ll socialize more after I succeed in rehab.”


This may not be the healthiest approach. Your social life before rehab should be
maintained even after your injury. 


Start practicing your social skills today. Stick with the habit of talking to
your family and friends, and ask them how they are doing. You can also meet up
with them and spend quality time together. You can even take a step further and
chat with new people in the online or offline support groups. They’ll be glad to
connect with you.






 ★Star 4. Setbacks only make me stronger
Many brain injury survivors experience rehab slumps. Even if they get enough
training done, the body doesn’t feel right.


You feel like you hit a brick wall on the path to recovery. In fact, rehab may
even seem like running on a treadmill...What should you do?



Bear in mind that slumps won’t make you collapse. They’re stepping stones for
you to forge ahead.


They're only temporary yet necessary—a sign that you’re on the right track.



Coping with these setbacks and challenges may be difficult at first, but will
get easier with time. Eventually, you will get stronger and more resilient,
which is considered an important factor in your progress.


When a slump comes your way, welcome it as if it’s your day off, knowing it’ll
ultimately lead to healing. The right amount of rest is a part of rehab, too.
Make rehab a happy journey where you can unwind and relax along the way.


Remember—After every setback, there’s a comeback!





 ★Star 5. I can be happy even after a brain injury
Life is filled with the unforeseen circumstances and traumas. Brain injury
brings a lot of changes, losses, and challenges in your mind and body. It is
normal to feel frustrated and overwhelmed during brain injury recovery.


Happiness is not defined by your illness and medical conditions. Happiness is
actually based on your perception. However, it is not easy to stay positive all
the time.



Regardless of the life circumstances, there are always things to be grateful for
everyday. For instance — clean water, food, social support, technology that
allows you to be on this app, enough strength and energy to complete your rehab
routines, etc...


Actively look for the happy moments and simple pleasures in your life.


Engage in activities that you love, recite positive affirmations, and work on
changing your lifestyle. Write down the small and big goals in your life, and
think about what you can do today to get a step closer to achieving them.


Though it seems unimaginable at the moment, it is possible to get through this,
and live a life full of contentment and purpose even after a brain injury.


You need time to heal physically and emotionally, and we hope that each day gets
easier for you.





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Conclusion (Wrap-up)
Which star did you think was most memorable? 



Regardless of your frustrations, your efforts will eventually pay off. Your
valuable time and efforts in your current path will come to fruition—just like
nurturing a plant, watering it and giving it time to grow into a sturdy tree
with strong, deep roots.


Your progress has transpired from the beginning and it's happening at this
moment. Be with Rehabit, and it's still to come. And in due time, it will bear
fruit.


If you’re interested in Rehabit, please visit here
[https://www.neofect.com/us/rehabit]. ?

Install Rehabit now
[https://www.neofect.com/app-download?app=rehabit&pid=organic_MKT&c=Blog&af_adset=Post_best-mental-care] 
and reclaim your health and happiness!