Hundreds of thousands of people have strokes each year. The physical effects of these cerebral events depend on the extent and location of the damage. Recovery times also vary from one person to the next. Here’s what to expect during the first three months of recovery.
First Three Hours
Seniors who have a stroke secondary to a blood vessel blockage must receive medical intervention within three hours of the onset of symptoms to keep the damage at a minimum. Clot-busting medications are administered as part of the recovery process.
First Two Days
Once the stroke survivor is stabilized, physicians treat any other medical concerns and implement measures to prevent complications. The senior’s overall condition is evaluated to determine the type and intensity of therapy necessary for recovery, then rehabilitation begins. The brain has its highest level of plasticity during this time. Neurons are busy creating new pathways of communication, and the medical team understands that by engaging the senior in rehab, they can help recovery happen more quickly. During this time, the stroke survivor is advised to change his or her position in bed often. Initial rehab efforts may involve passive range of motion, which is accomplished with the help of a therapist. If the senior is able, he or she will be encouraged to walk around his or her room or in the hallway with assistance.
This is the ideal time to consider making arrangements for professional home care so you’ll be well prepared when your loved one returns home. Families looking for top-rated Huntsville elder care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
First Week
As survivors experience an increase in their abilities, the rehabilitation process often involves more rigorous exercises that can be accomplished independently. In preparation for discharge, seniors and family members receive instructions. Stroke survivors may need someone to assist them at home for a while. A family member may assume the role of caregiver in the stroke survivor’s home, or the senior might temporarily reside with family members during the early stage of recovery.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Huntsville, AL, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
Return Home
Seniors who have minor strokes may be able to leave the hospital within a week. Those who have more severe strokes may need to remain in the hospital longer. However, the majority of stroke survivors regain 50 percent of their abilities within the first two weeks after the event. Rehabilitation efforts continue, with therapists helping survivors relearn how to accomplish the activities of daily living. Rehabilitation at this time is performed on an outpatient basis. Physicians provide a series of exercises seniors can perform on their own to reduce whatever deficits they may have experienced. Occupational, physical, and speech therapy continues for the next five or six weeks.
Three-Month Mark
After three months, brain plasticity begins to slow. The brain continues to heal, but survivors commonly experience a plateau effect at this time. The older adult may no longer be required to attend therapy appointments, and the recovery process may seem to stall, which could discourage the stroke survivor. However, rather than giving up, the senior must increase the intensity of the therapeutic efforts. Family members should continue to look for new ways to instill motivation, enhance progress, and encourage their loved one to keep up the good work.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care. Turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. To hire a dedicated caregiver, call Home Care Assistance at (256) 716-9940 today.