According to the CDC, more than 795,000 people in the USA each year have a stroke. Unmentioned in that number are the litany of family caregivers, home health aides, and community members aiding the stroke patient through their recovery.
For those caregiving for a loved one in stroke recovery, it can feel as though the finish line is an every retreating fixture in the distance. Days become nothing but recouping, recovering, relearning, and repeating,
It is very important to carefully care for your loved ones to prevent any further accidents and pain, as well as liability. Caregiving and recovery helps with preventing any further issues for the patient. Here are some tips to keep in mind for a professional home care worker.
Recovery may not be consistent.
You may expect that your loved one’s recovery will be an upward and constant climb back to wellness. This expectation, although possible, is not always the way that life works. Recovery is often inconsistent, with many caregivers reporting impressive gains in the first 3-4 months, and a slower plateau of progress following after.
Be aware of depression in the post-stroke period.
Those undergoing stroke recovery are vulnerable to depression. In fact, nearly 30-50 percent of post-stroke individuals report some form of depression in their recovery process. If you notice that your loved one is undergoing depressive moods, be prepared to involve a counselor or mental health professional within your health care network.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Strokes and stroke recovery are both turbulent life events. If you have been thrust into the role of caretaker, it can be an overwhelming experience.
Remember, that you are not alone; it’s never too late to ask for help. Extend your healthcare network to include family members, friends, and even community members.
You can also outsource to a qualified home care agency. They can pair you and your loved one with a qualified personal aide to help in the stroke recovery and rehabilitation process.
Adapt lifestyle choices.
When going through stroke recovery, it’s imperative to be simultaneously practicing stroke prevention. Help your loved one remove any lifestyle choices, potential stressors, or unhealthful consumables that place them at further risk of another stroke.
Ask questions frequently.
When undergoing stroke recovery, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Ask about your loved one’s medications. Ask about the side effects. Ask each doctor’s thoughts and catalog them accordingly. The more information you amass, the better equipped you’ll be as you journey through the recovery.
