When your senior loved one comes home to recover from a stroke, it is important to provide him or her with high-quality home care Mississauga. An unhealthy recovery could lead to severe brain damage, a second stroke, and other serious medical concerns. Here are 5 tips to help you facilitate the process.
1. Secure the Home
The risk of falling may increase after a stroke. Make sure the house is safe once your loved one comes home from the hospital. Falls can lead to serious medical issues, including fractures or severe bleeding and bruising. Clear the walkways in the home, remove clutter from all of the rooms, and make sure the floors are not slippery. You should also remove all rugs or keep them secure.
2. Serve Nutritious Meals
Many senior stroke survivors also live with diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension. Prepare healthy meals for your loved one, including snacks he or she can eat throughout the day. This can help him or her maintain a healthy diet and prevent medical conditions like the ones mentioned above. Foods high in fiber and lean protein and low in salt and fat are healthy choices, and your loved one should also avoid eating processed foods throughout the recovery process.
3. Make Daily Tasks Easier
Your loved one will want to continue doing some basic tasks independently, which may include bathing and dressing. You can install benches and grab bars in the shower to make bathing easier and safer to do without assistance. Shoes made with elastic laces or Velcro may be easier to slip on and off, and shirts made with Velcro or snaps may be easier to put on compared to those with buttons. Buying pants with elastic waistbands can make getting dressed easier for your loved one and make clothing more comfortable to wear during recovery.
4. Encourage Physical Activity
Staying physical can help your loved one maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial after he or she has experienced a stroke. Moderate activity approved by a doctor can help release positive endorphins into your loved one’s body and reduce stress, which is a major risk factor for a second stroke.
5. Hire a Stroke Caregiver
Caregivers who specialize in stroke recovery will have the necessary knowledge and experience to help your loved one receive high-quality care at home. A Mississauga stroke caregiver can ensure your loved one takes medications on time, provide transportation to rehabilitation appointments, assist with personal care and hygiene, and help him or her maintain the ability to function physically. All of these things are necessary to increase the odds of a smooth recovery.
A stroke caregiver from Mississauga Home Care Assistance can help with all of the above and more. Beyond just assisting with your loved one’s physical needs, our caregivers can provide the mental stimulation and emotional support seniors often need after surviving a stroke. For more information on the live-in and hourly care Mississauga families trust, call one of our experienced Care Managers at 905-337-1200 today.