MAKASSAR, Indonesia December 15, 2026/EAGING/ – Stroke remains one of the world’s leading causes of death and disability. For many survivors, the journey after a stroke is long and challenging. Weakness, limited mobility, and difficulties performing daily activities can make even simple tasks overwhelming. However, recovery does not depend solely on hospitals, doctors, or physiotherapists. In many cases—especially in Southeast Asia—the most powerful support system comes from the family.
A recent scientific review, “The role of family in mobilization exercises for post-stroke patients in Southeast Asia: a scoping review,” published in Gülhane Medical Journal (Gulhane Med J) on December 11, 2025, highlights how families play a crucial role in helping stroke survivors regain mobility and independence. The study found that many stroke patients experience weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, which significantly affects their ability to move and perform everyday activities. Without proper rehabilitation, this condition can lead to complications such as joint stiffness, pressure ulcers, and respiratory problems. Mobilisation exercises—activities designed to gradually restore movement, balance, and strength—are therefore essential for recovery.
In Southeast Asian countries, families often become the primary caregivers for stroke survivors. The review revealed that family members actively assist patients in performing exercises such as range-of-motion movements, walking practice, and daily activity training. They also help reposition patients, supervise rehabilitation routines, and encourage them to stay motivated during recovery. These simple but consistent efforts significantly improve patients’ functional abilities and quality of life.
Beyond physical assistance, emotional support from family members is equally important. Stroke survivors frequently experience frustration, anxiety, or loss of confidence due to their physical limitations. Family encouragement can restore hope and motivate patients to continue rehabilitation exercises. A supportive home environment helps patients stay committed to therapy, which ultimately increases the likelihood of regaining independence.
However, the review also identifies several challenges. Many families lack proper knowledge about rehabilitation techniques. Limited information about mobilization exercises and stroke recovery can make caregiving stressful and less effective. Education programs for families, including training on basic rehabilitation techniques and access to healthcare guidance, are therefore essential to support both patients and caregivers.
These findings strongly connect to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being. SDG 3 aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all ages. Stroke rehabilitation supported by families represents a practical community-based approach to achieving this goal. By empowering families with knowledge and resources, healthcare systems can improve patient recovery outcomes and reduce the long-term burden of disability.
Ultimately, stroke recovery is not only a medical process—it is also a social and family journey. When families become active partners in rehabilitation, they transform homes into spaces of healing. Their support, patience, and encouragement can make the difference between dependence and independence for stroke survivors.
Reference
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4274/gulhane.galenos.2025.78790
Contact:
Andi Masyitha Irwan, S.Kep., Ns., MAN., Ph.D.
+6285342600183
citha_ners@med.unhas.ac.id
