When someone survives a stroke, they usually have the goal of returning to live on their own, at home. However, even with the help of family caregivers, recovery is often challenging. At this point, family members may wonder what support services will promote the highest level of recovery.
Every year, it’s estimated that more than 800K people in the U.S. suffer a stroke. Approximately 140K of them will die, and many others will suffer a serious disability. As the U.S. population gets older, this rate is only going to increase; however, stroke is not just a disease that afflicts seniors. According to the CDC, approximately 34% of individuals hospitalized after a stroke were 65 years old or younger. The risk is going up as many younger people experience higher rates of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
However, the trends are not all negative. Today, more stroke survivors than ever before have made a full recovery with no or minor long-term effects. What can stroke victims do to help increase the chances of regaining the highest level of function and independence?
The outcome depends on how severe the stroke was and the area of the brain that suffered damage. It also depends on how early treatment is started to reduce the damage that has occurred. Everyone needs to learn the signs of a stroke to know when to seek care and to act fast when these symptoms are seen.
One way to help ensure stroke victims can fully recover is by seeking professional, in-home care. Some of the ways that these professional care providers can help support recovery after a stroke are found here.
Transportation and Care Coordination
Stroke rehabilitation is often complicated and takes a long time. During this period, victims are often struggling cognitively and with mobility. An in-home caregiver will help individuals keep up with appointments, drive them where they must go, and take care of medication needs. This helps reduce stress on the patients and their families, allowing them to focus on recovery.
Supervision During the Home Rehabilitation Period
Most rehabilitation professionals agree that the most crucial element to a full and successful recovery is a carefully directed and well-focused repetitive practice. Some patients are given an array of exercises to do at home. An in-home caregiver will provide encouragement, reminders, and supervision to help patients stick with their prescribed routine.
Help with Day-to-Day Activities
A caregiver will help clients with dressing, grooming, bathing, using the restroom, and an array of other personal care tasks they can’t handle on their own. Trained caregivers are always careful to preserve their client’s dignity during this challenging time.
Finding the Right In-Home Care Provider
Remember, not all in-home care services are the same. Take some time to research the local area options and then contact the professional service provider to learn more about their solutions.