Whenever I'm working with patients and clients towards their goals, if family are present and supportive, I also encourage them to be involved as much as possible. I strongly believe family or caregiver support is essential when it comes to having successful outcomes for the patient. If you think about the condition the patient is in, they are not operating or functioning in an optimal state therefore are likely unable to do all activities independently. So here are some ways I work with a patient's family member so they can provide the best support for their their loved ones' goals: 1. Offer strategies and exercises (with demonstrations) to help patients make ongoing physical and cognitive improvements. 2. Educate family members about the patient's condition and recovery process to foster compassionate support. 3. Prepare and encourage family members to plan for the future by providing information on resources (e.g., home equipment, mobility aids, community supports). 4. Provide emotional support and education to family members struggling to accept their loved one's condition and functional changes. Research suggests that having strong social supports positively impacts health outcomes, and this is why family or caregiver involvement is extremely important.