Surviving and going through recovery from a stroke is both an emotionally and physically challenging process, and the main thing you’d like to do is to return to your regular life. Nevertheless, because at least half of stroke survivors frequently have some kind of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in-home safety modifications may be needed to make life after a stroke safer and easier.
The good news is that there are some simple actions that can make the home safer and more accessible for someone who is recovering from a stroke. Below are several post-stroke home modification recommendations from Solutions In-Home Care:
Preventing Falls:
Nearly 40% of stroke survivors experience significant falls within a year following their strokes. These pointers can help avert trips and falls in the senior’s home:
- Ensure that hallways and walkways to the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen are clear so the senior can move with ease
- Look into platform lifts or stair glides for any steps in the residence
- Remove or secure loose rugs
- Put grab bars in the bathtub or shower
- Install a shower chair or tub bench
- Use non-slip mats inside and outside the tub
Make Laundry Day Easier:
Taking care of laundry involves a significant amount of bending, lifting, reaching and pulling that may be tricky for a stroke survivor. The tips below can help:
- Relocate the washer and dryer to a more easily accessible location in the home
- Consider front-loading, stackable machines that could be easier to reach
- Place detergents and other laundry supplies in an easy to reach location
- Utilize an ironing board that folds down from the wall
Create a Safer Bedroom:
The bedroom ought to be a place of safety and sanctuary. To make sure it stays that way post-stroke, consider these suggestions:
- Install a light switch near the bed
- Rearrange clothing and personal items so they are easier to access
- Place a commode chair near the bed
With our in-home safety evaluations and suggestions, Solutions can help ensure that your loved one’s home is secure and safe to ensure recovery from a stroke. Our experienced caregivers can also provide the care and assistance your loved one may need to improve recovery and make life easier with services such as:
- Friendly companionship
- Engaging activities, such as games, puzzles, hobbies/interests, etc.
- Personal care assistance with bathing, dressing and using the bathroom
- Accompanied transportation for medical appointments, shopping or errands
- Meal planning and preparation
- Encouragement to participate in physician-approved exercise
- Light housework and laundry
- Respite care for family caregivers
- And much more!
Contact or call us today at (509) 627-8575 to learn more about our top-rated home health care in Richland, WA and surrounding areas. For a full list of the communities we serve, please visit our Service Area page.