Approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have strokes each year. The development of symptoms and long-lasting effects vary depending on the region affected and the extent of the trauma. Family members often opt to care for an older loved one during recovery. The compassion, comfort, encouragement, and support of family caregivers play a major role during the recovery process. However, there are several factors to consider when taking on the task.
Obtain Knowledge
Meet with members of your loved one’s medical team to learn what type of stroke occurred. Understand the treatment process. Become familiar with current and future symptoms your loved one is likely to exhibit. Learn the basics of the home care process, and consider taking a class or attending a stroke recovery group.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Dallas, TX, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
Make Modifications to the Home
Modifying different aspects of the home is often necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of stroke survivors. The types of adjustments needed may vary depending on the deficits and symptoms your loved one exhibits. If your loved one must use a wheelchair, entryways and indoor doorways may need to be widened to enable him or her to go in and out of the home in addition to accessing rooms. If he or she is able to ambulate but has a one-sided weakness, ensure pathways are clear. Remove throw rugs and other items that might cause tripping and falling. Install grab bars in the bathroom on either side of the toilet and in the bath or shower. Adequate lighting is another consideration.
Be Understanding About Personality Changes
It’s not unusual for stroke survivors to become frustrated, angry, or depressed secondary to their current condition. The emotions are often a way of grieving the losses they’re experiencing. However, depending on the region of the brain that experienced trauma, seniors may become angry or weep for seemingly little reason. Understand your loved one cannot help the emotional change. Be compassionate and understanding.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Dallas Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Participate in Rehabilitation
Despite having days of feeling hopeless or helpless, stroke survivors must endure to boost their health. Attend rehabilitation appointments with your parent and learn about the exercises the therapists recommend for use at home. While at home, offer a gentle nudge if your loved one needs encouragement to perform the exercises, and praise his or her accomplishments.
Prevent Additional Strokes
Statistics indicate that up to 25 percent of stroke survivors experience a second stroke. Older adults must take a proactive approach to prevent future strokes. Help your loved one make the necessary lifestyle changes to reduce the risk. Seniors often must take anticoagulant medications, cholesterol-lowering agents, or blood pressure–lowering formulations. Make sure your loved one adheres to the medication regimen. Refill prescriptions when necessary. Help him or her eat healthier by experimenting with appealing new cuisine options. Encourage becoming more physically active as his or her ability permits.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Dallas elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (214) 363-3400 today.