Abu Dhabi, UAE: SEHA’s Salma Rehabilitation Hospital has highlighted the recovery of a 62-year-old stroke patient, demonstrating the role of multidisciplinary rehabilitation and family support in restoring mobility, communication and independence after severe neurological injury.

The patient suffered an acute ischaemic stroke that caused profound muscle weakness and initially required mechanical ventilation, tube feeding and a tracheostomy. At the beginning of rehabilitation, communication and physical activity were severely limited.

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A coordinated care programme focused on speech and communication, swallowing, physiotherapy and mobility. Gradual ventilator weaning, speech therapy and swallowing assessments helped the patient progress towards oral feeding and improved communication.

Rhea Maurice El Achkar, speech therapist/speech & language pathologist at Salma Rehabilitation Hospital, said: “Regaining the ability to communicate was an important turning point in this patient’s recovery. As his ability to express himself improved, we saw greater engagement with therapy, stronger interaction with those around him, and meaningful progress in both swallowing and overall rehabilitation.”

Despite temporary setbacks caused by respiratory complications, continued clinical care and family support supported his recovery. Physiotherapy progressed from bedside exercises and assisted transfers to structured mobility training and independent walking.

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By discharge, the patient had regained significant strength, communication abilities and independent mobility, enabling greater participation in daily activities.

The case highlights how personalised rehabilitation, multidisciplinary care and family involvement can help patients regain function and confidence following serious neurological injuries.