Stroke Care
Stroke Care
Strokes can sometimes be mild or severe and anywhere in between. We understand that each stroke patient is unique and their care is unique. This is why we work with a consortium of health team members to create a customized care plan for YOU.
Our goal for the patient who has had a stroke is to get to a point where they do not require home care at all! We have had tremendous success in getting our stroke patients to that end.
We understand that caring for a stroke patient requires consistency, patience and perseverance. Here is a sample of what Assisting Hands Home Care for Stroke Patients looks like:
Select the Care You Need
Encourage daily rehabilitation exercise
Many stroke patients struggle with motor impairments after stroke. These motor skills need attention when the patient goes home. We can help your loved one recover by encouraging daily rehabilitation exercise to help rewire the brain. Regular movement is the best remedy for stroke.
Focus on Independence, not pampering
If we see your loved one struggling to do something, we will help if they ask or if absolutely necessary. Sometimes it’s considered tough love. Stroke patients need to do things on their own to keep getting better. Don’t shortchange their recovery by doing things they can do.
Work with social workers or case managers
Social workers and case managers are an essential part of the stroke recovery team. We will coordinate your care WITH them. We will share your progress and setbacks with them They can provide you with critical information about things like home modifications and insurance coverage after discharge.
Work with an Occupational Therapist for house modification recommendations
Stroke patients are at high risk of falling due to common balance problems or one sided visual neglect after a stroke. Making home modifications, like installing grab bars and non-slip mats, as well as decreasing clutter the home can improve your loved one’s safety. We also provide a free home safety inspection with our free consultation.
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Work with Physical Therapists for exercise reminders
We are not physical therapists, but we help significantly by providing exercise reminders and encouragement help maintain motivation during the recovery process.
Keep a record of side effects from medication
Most stroke survivors are put on multiple forms of medication that each serve a different purpose (for example, blood thinners, cholesterol control, etc.).
All medications come with side effects that should be carefully monitored.
It’s an excellent idea to keep a log of your stroke survivor’s behavior and symptoms, and keep track of any changes or problems. We take electronic notes so we can keep and watch for any trends.
Keep pushing past the plateau
Most stroke survivors experience a ‘plateau’ after the first 3 months of recovery This slowdown, however, is not a sign that recovery is stopping. Neurological changes stabilize after several months, but functional improvements are possible for a lifetime. The brain is capable of changing and healing decades after stroke. We help you push past the plateau and encourage you to see this as a sign to revamp your rehabilitation efforts.
Take Falls Very Seriously
It can be difficult for stroke patients to get up off the floor, so falls should be taken very seriously. Having a caregiver with you at home can help prevent falls or at least have them be less serious.
Always ensure that your loved one has sufficient mobility (enough to get back up) before ever being left alone.
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Help Manage Stroke Risks
Certain lifestyle behaviors can increase the risk of recurrent stroke. Be sure to keep blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and stress levels in check. Assisting Hands can help take and monitor your blood pressure and do med reminders to keep your health on an even keel.
Contact Us
For more answers to your questions, please give us a call directly at (781) 400-8880 and we will be happy to help!
