Stroke recovery can vary from person to person, but there are a few methods of post-stroke care that can help any senior stroke survivor, no matter the severity of the stroke. Here are some tips on how to effectively care for your elderly loved one after he or she has a stroke.
Enlist Professional Help
In addition to a physician, your loved one may need the help of a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, and/or a home caregiver. Initially, inpatient rehabilitation may be needed as well. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for information about services your loved one qualifies for.
If your senior loved one needs professional in-home care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors.
Make Home a Safe Place
Falls aren’t uncommon after a stroke, but you can make the home safer by removing any throw rugs or other potential tripping hazards, installing raised toilet seats and grab bars in the bathrooms, and making sure your loved one can easily reach anything he or she might need. An occupational therapist can help you get the house ready for your loved one’s return home after a stroke.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Rocklin in-home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Watch for Changes in Mood and Behavior
As many as 30 to 50 percent of people can develop depression after a stroke. Seniors may experience other changes as well, such as mood swings or angry outbursts. Involving seniors in certain activities and expressing a positive attitude when interacting with them can go a long way toward boosting their overall mood.
Reduce the Risk of a Second Stroke
After having one stroke, a senior is at increased risk for recurrent strokes. You can reduce your loved one’s risk by preparing and serving healthful low-fat meals, encouraging exercise, and following the doctor’s instructions.
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. Rocklin, CA, 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. Call us at (916) 226-3737 to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.