Guest Post By:Amanda Kaestner
Since a stroke is a type of brain injury, moving, talking,
or thinking after one may be difficult for a survivor. One part of his or
her body may be stronger than the other, and these complications can
last short-term or possibly long-term. Recovery rates vary significantly
from one survivor to the next. As a loved one copes with life after
such a traumatic experience, it may be difficult to know how to help.
Here are four ways loved ones, acting as caregivers, can navigate that tricky
post-stroke period.
Find Simple Fixes
After a stroke, everyday tasks may prove to be more difficult or even
severely hinder a loved one's independence. Help him or her simplify. A
quick 'fix' may be just the thing to keep survivors' and caregivers' stress
levels down.
In an article entitled, "15 Things Caregivers Should Know After a Loved
One Has Had a Stroke", the American Heart
Association states that, "The most rapid recovery usually occurs
during the first three to four months after a stroke, but some stroke survivors
continue to recover well into the first and second year
post-stroke." This is why short
term rehabilitation immediately following a stroke may be the most
proactive resolution for permanent recovery. So, a loved one
may experience incredible pain or frustration when trying to
complete daily tasks for some time, but it’s possible
to help him or her discover ways to cope in the interim.
For example, if shoe laces are too difficult to tie, help him or her find
comfortable pairs that simply slip on or have Velcro enclosures. If he or
she currently has difficulty using buttons, zippered sweatshirts or
plain t-shirts may need to suffice -- for now.
Notice
the Warning Signs of Depression
Depression is common after a stroke. It can greatly inhibit recovery, so it's
pertinent for a caregiver to pay attention to the warning signs of
depression. If the survivor exhibits signs of ultra-low energy, loss of
interest in things once loved, or if he or she feels sad for two or more
weeks, depression may have set in.
According to the "Recovering
After a Stroke: A Patient and Family Guide" by the U.S. Agency
for HealthCare Research and Quality, other symptoms of depression
(physical or psychological) may include:
- · Feeling slowed down, restless, or unable to sit still.
- · Feeling worthless or guilty.
- · Change in appetite or weight.
- · Problems concentrating, thinking, remembering, or making decisions.
- · Sleeping problems.
- · Loss of energy or feeling constant fatigue.
Get treatment for depression and note which medications are being consumed
as they may have side effects that help spur such feelings. Talk of
suicide or suicidal behaviors needs to be reported to a professional
immediately.
Help
Prevent Another Stroke
After the first stroke, the likelihood that another stroke can happen within
the next year increases. Help a loved one understand that a stroke is a
wake-up call. He or she may need to start regularly and consistently
taking new medications, work on diet changes, stop smoking, start an
exercise routine, visit doctors or physical therapists routinely, or make
other major or minor lifestyle changes. The road to recovery is different
for each patient, and it can be blocked with his or her resistance to
change, frustration, and even fear.
Caregivers
Also Need Encouragement
When a loved one has suffered through a major health nightmare, love,
understanding, and a helping hand can assist in recovery. However, this
situation is not easy for a caregiver either.
Seek out caregiver community support groups.
Ask a relative, friend, or neighbor for help or respite.
Schedule some periods of fun or relaxation, whether
that's a spa day, an hour-long massage, a night at the movie theater, or a
concert.
The Family Caregiver
Alliance®, the public voice for caregivers, encourages them
to: "Forgive yourself—often. You cannot be a perfect caregiver, all
day, every day."
It's nearly impossible to tackle all of the challenges
tomorrow may bring your way without some breaks away from the stress.
Depression can easily take hold of caregivers, too. Caregivers need to put
themselves first from time to time so they can calmly
and effectively take care of those around them.