How to Assist Your Aging Loved One During Stroke Recovery
By Home Care Assistance Des Moines 9 am on
A stroke can occur whenever blood flow to the brain is blocked, and it is often caused by a blood clot or a broken blood vessel. Having a stroke may result in various health issues that take time and patience to heal. During stroke recovery, the primary focus is on increasing physical health and helping the person restore lost brain functions. If your senior loved one has recently experienced a stroke, use the following tips to take proper care of him or her during recovery.
Keep Your Loved One Company at the Hospital
Most stroke survivors need to spend a lot of time in a healthcare facility. During this stage of recovery, focus on providing emotional and social support for your loved one. Visit regularly, and continue to talk with him or her on a normal level. Even if your loved one cannot speak or communicate, he or she may still be able to understand you.If your busy schedule can’t accommodate extra attention to your aging loved one’s recovery, consider hiring a professional caregiver. In Des Moines, home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Listen to Healthcare Professionals
It is absolutely essential to listen to the doctors, nurses, and therapists who will be helping your loved one during recovery. Many caregivers find it helpful to keep a notebook on-hand so they can write down instructions. Follow advice about therapy, exercise, nutrition, and medication so you can help your loved one recover as quickly as possible. Avoid using supplements without talking to the doctor, since some natural remedies can increase the risk of secondary strokes. Each stroke case is unique, so you need to use the instructions given to you by those familiar with your loved one’s case.
Reduce the Risk Factors for Additional Strokes
Stroke survivors have a high chance of having another stroke. You can take steps to help your loved one stay healthy by making low-fat, low-sodium meals that contain plenty of lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try to avoid exposing your loved one to secondhand smoke, and discourage him or her from drinking alcohol and smoking. Once your loved one regains physical strength, assist him or her with gentle cardio exercise.If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits that promote overall health, consider hiring a professional caregiver. In Des Moines, IA, home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
Be Understanding of Changing Moods
Many senior stroke survivors experience frustration, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Try to be patient and understanding when your loved one has outbursts. You can empathize with your loved one’s emotions and provide sympathy, but it is important to stay calm and support him or her.
Make the Home Safer
Seniors generally have difficulty with their motor skills following a stroke, so you may need to make some changes to your loved one’s daily surroundings and habits. Make sure your loved one has clothing with Velcro closures or elastic so he or she can get dressed easily, and consider getting utensil holders to help him or her eat with greater ease. Try to get rid of any clutter or rugs that could increase the risk of falls, and install grab bars and anti-slip matting in the bathroom.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. Des Moines, IA, 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. To learn about our premier senior care plans or to hire a dedicated caregiver for your aging loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (515) 264-2438 today.
