Stroke Support Services
Recovering from a stroke is by no means easy - but with the support of our Live-In Care Services, patients are able to live life independently again.
Stroke Care A mini-stroke, otherwise known as a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off. The resulting lack of oxygen to the brain results in the damage, or in some cases the death, of certain brain cells. Strokes can also be caused by bleeding in the brain, and these are called haemorrhagic strokes.
The effects of a stroke can vary greatly from person to person depending on the type and severity of the attack – as does the chance of making a full recovery. Among other things, the individual may require assistance with the following after stroke:
Mobility This covers a range of things, but care recipients will mostly need help getting around the home or venturing outside for trips or other social activities. Some patients can find walking very difficult. They can also be prone to tripping or falling, particularly in areas of risk such as the bathroom or the stairs. Having a live-in caregiver on hand to help can not only make life a lot easier – it can also provide reassurance to friends and family members who may worry about the person’s safety.
Muscle, joint, and nerve problems Patients often experience weakness in one side of the body, or may not be able to move at all. This can cause pain, along with a reduced ability to eat, bathe, dress and use the toilet. A live-in caregiver will be able to assist with all aspects of personal care.
Thinking and planning Even the simplest of routines can suddenly become extremely challenging after suffering a stroke, and this is often because the person can struggle to think clearly, or reason with their thoughts. Sleep patterns, memory and overall behavior can be affected, so the individual will require support with many daily tasks.
Speech Patients may suffer from aphasia, which means they find it difficult to find a word or phrase a sentence. Some can have trouble speaking at all. Though in many cases a professional speech therapist will be assisting the patient, talking and interacting with other people regularly, and without judgement, is vital to their recovery. This is where a dedicated after stroke live-in caregiver can help on a daily basis. Along with a speech professional, they can also help explore other means of communication during the recovery phase.
Depression and anxiety The after-effects of a stroke, and the changes in lifestyle that they can that they evoke, can lead to feelings of low mood and anxiety. It’s very important that action is taken to reduce negative thoughts and focus on remaining positive throughout the road to recovery. Because they have the time to get to know the patient and understand their concerns, a live-in caregiver can provide a more personalized level of one to one support than health professionals within a hospital or care home environment.
Frustration at your new circumstances Understandably, after stroke patients are often angry that they can no longer live the life they want to lead. Engaging with an after stroke live-in caregiver who can remain calm, compassionate and empathetic, even in times of distress or frustration, can make all the difference to the care recipient and those close to them.
Care for stroke patients Recovering from a stroke is by no means easy – but with the right support in their own home, many sufferers are able to live an independent life again.
To help your discharging patients learn more about the many benefits of after stroke live-in care, or to book an assessment with a Case Manager or RN, please contact Boardwalk Homecare today at 877-341-6797.