Planning for home care
After leaving the rehab center, most patients need to practice their exercises a few times daily. Others still need ongoing therapy or nursing care. Talk with your social worker or case manager about ways of meeting your loved one’s needs. Loved ones should help get all needed equipment and training in moving and handling, to position the patient safely in the home.
Setting up the bathroom
For your loved one’s safety, set up the bathroom with the features shown here. (This is for those who have the financial support to make modifications.)
A few minor changes can make home life easier and safer for your loved one. Try these tips:
- Turn down the water heater temperature a bit to help avoid burns.
- Get a cordless or speaker phone. Program emergency numbers and those of family and friends.
- Light halls and stairways. Keep all walkways free of clutter.
- Remove any throw rugs. Tape down electrical cords.
- Try to use a ground-floor bedroom if you live in a multilevel home
A stroke is no joke, so try and adapt as best you can. Some people will have more support than others. Please don't be afraid to ask for outside help. Your church, school or community organization may surprise you with the amount of help they are willing to give. You may be able to get small adaptations to your bathroom or other areas of your house completed by just asking.
Some people may need a ramp for wheelchair access, or just because you can no longer use the steps. Members of your church may be willing to build that for you. Just ASK! You don't have to be stuck in the house because you have limited mobility. Don't keep quiet about your needs. Chances are everyone now knows that you had a stroke. Lots of people may be willing to help but are waiting to be asked.