• Stamina

• Strength

• Mobility

• Mood and/or behavior changes

• Attention, concentration, memory

• Decision-making

• Impulse control

• Complex skills

• Motor control

• Speed

• Behavior

• Social skills

• Personality changes

• Communication skills

Usually the functional limitations resulting from a stroke are numerous, and one can easily show a connection between those and vocational problems. Many times the individual has worked before and cannot return to the previous job, or needs special help in order to return to it. Primarily, the counselor needs to look at the communication skills and residual physical capacities. Stamina and emotional problems can also be problematic.

• The counselor needs some medical information suggesting stability (a reasonable prognosis).

• Will the person alter his/her risk factors, e.g., smoking, drinking, diet, exercise regime?

• Will he/she comply with the medical recommendations?

• What degree of support does the family provide?

• Is the person realistic about his/her limitations so that agreement can be reached on a feasible vocational goal?