A stroke causes damage in the brain that forever alters the world of the survivor. There may be recovery to near-normal levels, or severe damage that restricts some or many life functions. In some cases, the stroke victim will spend the rest of his or her life in a nursing facility. In many other cases, however, the patient can return home. But even so, things might never be the same.
Coming Home
If someone you care about has recovered sufficiently from a stroke to come back home, you probably have some fears and concerns. The stroke survivor will have some fears as well.
- Q: Is it likely there will be another stroke?
A: There is always a risk, but there are also steps to reducing the risk.
- Q: Will mom (or dad) accept being cared for?
A: Any change in roles or abilities can be a hard adjustment.
- Q: What changes will I need to make in the house to accommodate someone in a wheelchair?
A: You might need grab bars, wider doors, shower modifications, and other changes to accommodate someone using a wheelchair or a walker.
- Q: Do I have the time and energy to be a good caregiver?
A: Only you can answer that question.
- Q: What if I can't handle it?
A: Your mom (or dad) might feel angry, abandoned, or be more difficult to care for than you imagined. Make the best decisions you can with the information you have now, and don't be afraid or ashamed to reevaluate your decisions.
- Q: Do you need extra help? How much?
A: Professional caregivers can be a big help.
What to Expect
Behavior after a stroke can vary greatly depending on the extent of damage done. There are certain patterns and behaviors common to many stroke survivors:
- The stroke survivor might need an ordered environment with guidance in making decisions. Step by step procedures, repeated over and over might be necessary.
- Stroke survivors can become depressed and reluctant to communicate, eat, take medications, or take care of themselves. Patience and resolve are your strengths.
- The stroke survivor might laugh or cry inappropriately. It could have more to do with damage caused by the stroke than with emotions.
- The stroke survivor might seem not to notice people or objects near them. Certain types of damage make it difficult to focus on nearby objects.
- The stroke survivor might have minor or severe memory problems, especially for recent events. You could find yourself repeating the same information over and over, day after day.
- The stroke survivor might have slurred speech or difficulty finding the words to communicate. That is often very frustrating having a thought in mind but not being able to communicate it.
- The stroke survivor might have difficulty using a fork or spoon, swallowing, or getting dressed. And accepting help might be difficult for him or her to do.
Preventing Another Stroke
Any stroke can be fatal, so it is vitally important to prevent another stroke.
- Maintaining a low-salt, moderate-fat, low-saturated fat, and low-cholesterol diet can help control blood pressure and prevent a recurrent stroke. Follow the dietary advice of a doctor or nutritionist.
- Weight control is also important. Obesity is a risk factor for further strokes. Losing excess weight can reduce risk.
- Pain management is important to both mental and physical health. Exercise, pain medications, and special care of damaged or paralyzed parts of the body can help keep pain under control.
- Follow the doctor's recommendations regarding diet, activity, and prescriptions.
Summary
Coming home after a stroke can be difficult for the patient and the caregivers. Life won't be the same as it was before the stroke. Work closely with the medical care team.
Hire professional help when needed.
Be patient. |
