As a loved one what can I expect at home?

As a loved one of someone receiving after-stroke care at home, there are several things you can expect and do to provide support:

1. Help with Activities of Daily Living: Depending on the individual’s level of disability, they may require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. You can help by providing hands-on assistance or coordinating with other caregivers or home health aides to ensure that these tasks are completed.
2. Support Rehabilitation Efforts: Rehabilitation is an important aspect of after-stroke care and may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. You can provide support by encouraging the individual to participate in therapy exercises, helping them to practice skills, and providing positive reinforcement.
3. Monitor Medications: After-stroke care may involve managing medications to help prevent future strokes and manage other conditions that may be related to stroke. You can help by ensuring that medications are taken as prescribed, monitoring for side effects, and communicating with healthcare providers as needed.
4. Assist with Communication: Strokes can impact an individual’s ability to communicate effectively. You can help by practising active listening, using clear and simple language, and providing patience and support as the individual works to improve their communication skills.
5. Create a Safe Environment: After-stroke care may involve adapting the home environment to ensure safety and prevent falls or other accidents. You can help by identifying and addressing potential hazards, such as loose rugs or uneven flooring, and making necessary modifications or adjustments.
6. Provide Emotional Support: A stroke can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. You can provide emotional support by listening, providing encouragement, and helping to connect the individual with support groups or counselling services as needed.
7. Seek Respite Care: Caring for a loved one with after-stroke care needs can be challenging and may require a significant amount of time and energy. It is important to seek respite care or support from other family members or caregivers to prevent burnout and maintain your own well-being.

Overall, providing after-stroke care at home requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to adapt and adjust to the individual’s changing needs. Working closely with healthcare providers and rehabilitation professionals can help to ensure that the individual receives the appropriate level of care and support. Learn how we can help with stroke after care at home for your loved ones today.