If your elderly loved one has had a stroke, one of the most important steps you need to take to facilitate recovery is keeping him or her safe at home. Taking these measures can increase your loved one’s safety and help him or her focus on getting better.
Monitor Falls
Even though falls after a stroke are common, you should never ignore them, regardless of how minor they may be. When your loved one falls, he or she could experience severe pain, bruising and bleeding, or another stroke. Clear the clutter from the rooms and pathways throughout the home, and get rid of throw rugs and other items that could cause your loved one to fall.
Eliminate Depression
After having a stroke, your loved one may experience a great deal of stress. There are a variety of things that can cause this stress, such as worrying about experiencing another stroke or sadness from having to rely on you or others for help with basic needs. Too much stress can lead to depression and isolation, which can also put your loved one at a higher risk of having another stroke. To prevent depression, allow your loved one to help out whenever possible so he or she does not lose his or her independence. Remind your loved one he or she can return to a normal routine once he or she has fully recovered.
Reduce the Risk of Additional Strokes
Many seniors who experience a stroke have a higher chance of having another one. Help reduce your loved one’s risk by serving nutritious meals, encouraging doctor-approved exercises, discouraging smoking, and limiting his or her alcohol consumption. Be sure your loved one always has someone to talk to, including other family members, caregivers in Toronto, and post-stroke therapy groups. Let the doctor know if the medication your loved one is taking is working or if another treatment plan is necessary.
Hire an In-Home Stroke Caregiver
Your loved one will likely need constant care during post-stroke recovery, but your busy schedule may not allow you to commit to being a caregiver. A professional in-home caregiver can provide the care your loved one needs to maintain his or her safety. Choosing a caregiver who specializes in Toronto stroke care means your loved one will receive help with bathing, grooming, cooking, cleaning, and other daily tasks he or she isn’t able to perform independently. An in-home caregiver can keep your loved one safe during recovery and provide him or her with companionship, which senior stroke survivors need to prevent boredom and loneliness.
Increased safety is just one of the ways you can support your loved one during stroke recovery. With the help of an in-home caregiver from Home Care Assistance, you loved one can eat healthier, exercise more frequently, and work toward becoming more independent. For more information on the senior home care Toronto, ON, families trust, call (416) 488-8777 today.