How Seniors Can Recover From a Stroke
During the stroke recovery process, your senior loved one will focus on restoring motor skills and overcoming other side effects to the maximum extent possible. This process is really all about remaining as independent as possible while adapting to the new capabilities of their body. Recovery may also require finding additional emotional, social, and physical means of support for your senior loved one. With that said, here are some helpful ways seniors can recover from a stroke from our short-term rehab team in Pitman, NJ
Set achievable goals. The key to setting recovery goals is to remain realistic. Have your loved one first focus on simple physical tasks like bending down to put on socks or walking 40 ft. without becoming out of breath. If you’re not sure what goals are achievable for your senior parent, work with their primary care physician or physical therapist to narrow down what’s possible after their stroke?
Stick to the prescribed exercise routine. After your senior loved one has experienced a stroke, it is likely that they met with a physical therapist in the hospital or in a short-term rehab setting. The physical therapist is able to evaluate mom or dad’s physical state and prescribe exercises that will help strengthen and recover the afflicted areas. These exercises are crucial for recovery because they will not only help build up muscle but will also help teach the brain new ways to move. Sticking to the prescribed routine will support your loved one’s journey to regaining independence with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and bathing.
Stay positive and prioritize mental health. Mom or dad’s recovery depends not only on regaining physical strength but focusing on mental strength as well. Unfortunately, after a stroke, it’s common for the person to experience discouragement and even depression. If these feelings aren’t addressed and tackled head-on, the road to recovery becomes more difficult. That’s why it’s important to always encourage your loved ones to stay positive and to keep working towards their goals. If you are having trouble addressing their mental health, you should consult a professional for evaluation, treatment options, and added support.
Make lifestyle changes to reduce future stroke risk. While your loved one focuses on their physical therapy and mental health, it’s also important for them to incorporate healthier lifestyle changes to avoid having another stroke in the future. For example, if mom or dad doesn’t have the best diet (along with high blood pressure and cholesterol), now is the time to engage them in a low fat, low cholesterol diet incorporating heart-healthy foods such as leafy green vegetables, wholegrain, and fatty fish instead of processed meats. Your loved one should also cut out unhealthy habits like smoking and avoid succumbing to a sedentary lifestyle. Never underestimate the power of a good diet and exercise program!
Stroke Recovery at UMC at Pitman
Seniors who choose to recover at UMC at Pitman receive 24-hour comprehensive care and supervision. Rehabilitation represents the perfect intersection of healthcare, technology, and human connection. Complemented by our environment and professional associates, we can successfully treat those with complex health conditions like stroke recovery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, surgical recovery, and more.
For more information about short-term rehab in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/
