Chances of recovery from a stroke

Researchers still have much to learn about how the brain offsets damage caused by stroke. Some brain cells may be only temporarily damaged and may begin functioning again. Stroke survivors sometimes experience remarkable and unexpected recoveries. General recovery guidelines show that:

• 10 percent of stroke survivors recover almost completely
• 25 percent recover with minor impairments
• 40 percent experience moderate to severe impairments requiring special care
• 10 percent require care in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
• 15 percent die shortly after the stroke