Friends and family often ask what they can do to help a loved one recover from a stroke once they return home from the hospital.
We interviewed La Loma Village Health and Rehabilitation‘s Eric Muse, master’s level physical therapist and the center’s rehabilitation coordinator, for his advice.
1. Encourage use of the weak side. When recovering from a stroke, many people tend to compensate for their weaker limbs without realizing it, and family members can help them recognize and adjust for this. A stroke often weakens the opposite side of body from where the brain injury occurred and getting symmetry back in the body is important. Breaking their habit of automatically protecting the weaker side helps to facilitate improved function.
Simple verbal cues help. If they automatically reach for items with their stronger hand, for example, remind them to use the other one. If they stand on their weaker side when walking, encourage them to look that direction, creating a weight shift to the weaker side. Have them get up from chairs and sofas using both arms and legs equally.
2. Carefully watch for skin breakdown. If they are using braces, walkers, crutches or a wheelchair, monitor their skin closely for redness, chafing and signs of abrasion. Scabs, raw skin and other signs of abrasion are potential sites for infection and should be addressed immediately.
If caught when the skin first shows signs of irritation, it’s much easier to treat. This WebMD article has some great tips for healing those hot spots.
3. Create an environment that reduces risk of falling. Stroke survivors are often unsteady on their feet. While recovering, ordinary furniture and items in a home can be dangerous, especially if they show signs of neglecting their weaker side.
As you are walking with them, point out items coming up on their weak side, such as doorways, corners of end tables and other furniture. It will help them be more aware. Put away items that typically are on the floor, such as dog beds, throw rugs, clutter or unnecessary small furniture.
If you are looking for outpatient physical, occupational or speech therapy for stroke recovery, consider La Loma Village Health and Rehabilitation in Litchfield Park, AZ, or the Grandview Terrace Health and Rehabilitation in Sun City West, AZ. Both centers specialize in treating adults 55 and over, and offer significant expertise in helping patients recover from strokes and return to active living.
