Home Care For Stroke Patients: What You Need To Know

Has your caregiving client recently suffered a stroke? Home care services for stroke patients requires some special considerations. 

Together with medical professionals, developing a stroke patient home care plan is a key responsibility for a home caregiver. Here are six tips to get you started with after-stroke care at home: 

Take Precaution for Falls

Many stroke victims experience dizziness as they are recovering. This can lead to an increased risk for falling. This blog covers simple preventable measures to prevent falls, including: 

• Stay active to help improve strength and balance
• Wear sturdy, none-slip shoes instead of slippers or socks
• Install grab bars in showers and baths, as well as railings along stairs
• Use non-slip mats for showers and stairs to increase traction

Remember: If a fall results in more than just minor pain or bruising, seek emergency medical attention.

Encourage Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help decrease the chances of falling and further injury. A physical therapist can make a big difference in a stroke patient’s recovery. How can you encourage or facilitate physical therapy for your client? 

Learn about Stroke Medications

Doctors will typically prescribe new medications to someone who has had a stroke. Educate yourself about how these medications work, including possible side effects. 

If you are communicating directly with the healthcare provider, ask questions about the medications prescribed so you can help make the rehabilitation process easier.

Watch for Changes Behavior or Mood

A major medical event like a stroke has a ripple effect through other parts of the patient’s life. If you are caring for someone who shows an inability to control their emotions or reactions, or is generally acting out of character, inform their medical provider. 

In addition, anxiety and depression are common after a stroke. Symptoms of mental health issues should not be ignored. This blog covers common signs and symptoms of depression for a caregiver to know. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers online resources, including how to find a mental health professional near you.

Reassess Insurance Coverage 

A stroke can result in a change in health insurance coverage. In many cases, Medicare can help cover rehabilitation therapies, especially of the stroke resulted in a change in physical function. 

Keep an eye on changes in the stroke victim’s motor skills, speech skills, and self-care abilities after they come home. Any changes - positive or negative - can mean a change in eligibility for certain services. You can help be an advocate for your client. 

Be Aware of Risks for Another Stroke

The reality is that 1 in 4 people who have had a stroke will have another one. This can be prevented by making changes to diet and lifestyle. WebMD recommends healthy, low-fat meals, exercise, and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke.

For more information on how to provide the best home care for a stroke patient at home, contact Best Care. Our teams of senior home care professionals enjoy assisting at-home caregivers and can provide you with valuable home care resources to help you provide the best services possible.