Research addressing positive outcomes one year after stroke has been limited. The sample comprised 125 participants with complete Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale scores at baseline ( approximately 4 months after ischaemic stroke) and at follow-up (1 year later), 31 persons were defined as having a favourable outcome (an MMSE score of >or=28/30 and combined ADL/IADL score equal to 14/14 at follow-up) and 94 as having a poorer outcome. Predictors of a favourable outcome following stroke included being younger, having higher premorbid IQ, no atrial fibrillation, no dementia, less apathy and fewer intercurrent cerebrovascular events. We conclude that people can have good outcomes in the year after stroke except if they experience further cerebrovascular events and/or have risk factors for cerebrovascular disease. Brain reserve appears to be protective.