'It is often difficult for patients and their families to adjust their lives to a chronic disability, especially when it is time for the patient to come home from the hospital.' With this observation, the authors organized patient-family groups in which the patients: 1, had had a stroke; 2, were mentally and physically competent to participate in the group; 3, had a relative waiting to join the group; and 4, were returned to their homes after hospitalization. At first all members mourned for the lost physical functions, independence, self-esteem, and previous life style of the patients. They showed shock and denial at what had happened. These feelings turned to anger, first against fate and then against the demands the invalid made. These reactions were somewhat assuaged by reminiscence and practical plans for the future. Through ventilating their negative feelings, members became less threatened by them. Staff participants gained new insight into the effect their care had on members and their families.