If you are wondering where to begin check out these tips on how to best support your loved one after a stroke.

Family Support After Stroke: How Can I Help?

Family Support After Stroke
Strokes can be devastating events that have long term effects on the entire
family. The recovery process can be difficult to navigate. If you are wondering
where to begin check out these tips on how to best support your loved one after
a stroke.

Get organized
Navigating the complex world of healthcare services can be incredibly complex.
Information often gets lost in translation or forgotten over time. Creating a
caregiver notebook or folder can be a helpful way to consolidate information and
keep track of what’s happening around you and your loved one.

This notebook may include:

 * Contact information: A running list of all those involved, including family
   members, doctors, therapists, specialists etc.
 * A Schedule: keep a list of your loved one’s preferences and daily needs that
   can be used by others if you are away. This may include when they like to
   have a shower, foods they cannot eat, or a list of enjoyable hobbies.
 * A therapy log: Keep track of all medical procedures and daily occurrences in
   therapy. This will help you and future clinicians to understand what has been
   done in the past and inform their choices for the future.

Educate yourself:
As soon as you have a few free moments, start to research. The more you know the
better you will be at making informed decisions and acting as an advocate for
your loved one. There is a plethora of stroke related information available on
the internet and via your healthcare providers.
Start by learning the basic information surrounds stroke etiology, prognosis and
recovery process. Sites like the national stroke association and strokesmart.org
can help you gain a better understanding of where to go from here.
Once you have a better grasp on the basics. You may want to familiarize yourself
with what products and services are available that may enhance the quality of
your loved one’s recovery process. Technology is constantly evolving, and
Products like Neofect’s smart rehabilitation tools can supplement traditional
therapeutic techniques both while in the hospital or at home. Check out
neofect.com to find out more.

Modify the Environment
Remember to check in with your care team to find out how you can help ensure
that your loved one returns to a safe and stable living environment. The home
may need to be adapted by adding grab bars or ramps to prevent further decline
or injury. Double check that all equipment needed such as walkers or bed side
commodes will be available on or before the day of discharge. Your loved one may
need more than physical assistance once at home, you may need to appoint someone
to buy groceries, open mail, pay bills, pick up medication or attend to
financial planning.

Provide emotional support
The risk for significant mood changes and depression increases dramatically
after a stroke. Don’t underestimate how important your emotional support and
presence can be to your loved one. They may feel isolated or afraid. At times
they also may not have full control of their emotions, which could lead to
unexpected laughter or tears. Remember to be patient with them and with
yourself. Support groups both online and in person can be a life saver for many
patients and caregivers. Taking care of yourself is vital to both you and your
loved one. Remember to value yourself and the work you are doing for your loved
one.



*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-Home.neofect.com [http://home.neofect.com]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]