After the initial acute medical care is administered, and the stroke patient is stabilized, the difficult task of stroke recovery must take place. This is difficult for stroke patients and caregivers alike. Both must learn a new way of life. Patients of stroke are often left with debilitating brain injuries. These injuries affect many basic capabilities including speech, walking, using the bathroom, and eating. Stroke patients may be wheelchair bound or unstable on their feet. There are some steps that can be taken to make the journey to a new way of life easier for both patient and caregiver, and one of the most important of these steps is to prepare the home for the stroke patient to live there once again.
Stroke recovery patients must have several alterations to the home. One of these is in the home furnishings, to allow for comfort. A hospital bed is often required for patients who spend long periods of time in bed. A power assisted recliner will also provide comfort. A wheelchair bound patient will require several other alterations to the home. Doorways often must be increased in width, as must hallways and other walkways throughout the home. Install ramps leading up to the doorways, and lower light switches so that they may be reached from a seated position.
The bathroom will require even more changes for stroke recovery. This is one of the most treacherous places for stroke patients. The tub or shower must be equipped with non-slip mats or strips. Grab bars must also be installed. For wheelchair bound patients, a new tub or shower may need to be installed. Remove locks on the door so that the patient may be accessed in cases of emergencies. The toilet will also require grab bars installed on either side to prevent falls.
One more important change that should be made is to ensure telephone access from any places that the patient may need to call for help. This can be done by installing landline phones, or by giving the patient a cell phone that is programmed with emergency numbers. The ability to call for help in times of trouble is extremely important for anyone in stroke recovery.
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