Returning home after a stroke is an important milestone in a senior’s recovery. However, the average home needs certain modifications so he or she can navigate it after a stroke. If you have a senior loved one who is recovering from a stroke, consider making the following alterations to the home.
Get Assistive Bathroom Devices
Senior stroke survivors often find using the bathroom challenging. Safety devices like tub benches and raised toilet seats can make it easier for your loved one to use them. A bedroom commode chair may also prevent accidents if your loved one regularly has to go to the bathroom at night. You may want to hire a caregiver if your loved one requires assistance while going to the bathroom and managing everyday tasks around the home.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Align Home Care, a trusted provider of senior home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Increase Light Levels
Depending on the severity of the stroke, your loved one’s vision may be affected, making it harder to see in darkened areas. Even if your loved one’s vision is unaffected, he or she may risk tripping and falling in dark areas. Try to add brighter bulbs or more lamps in the home.
Add Automatic Controls
Your loved one’s memory may be affected after a stroke. Automatic shutoffs on stoves, ovens, and sinks can prevent fires and excessive utility bills. You can also automate hot water heater temperatures, air conditioning, heaters, and even lights to make things easier for your loved one.
Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable at-home care. Kennebunk, ME, families trust Align Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
Make Doors & Drawers Easier to Open
After a stroke, it can be difficult for seniors to use small door or cabinet knobs. If possible, use lever handles for doors and D-bar handles for cabinets and drawers. All fixtures should be simple enough to operate with a nudge of the fist or arm.
Reduce the Risk of Slipping & Falling
To prevent falls and injuries, take a look around the home for areas that could increase the risk of potential accidents. Get rid of low stools or thick rugs your loved one might trip on, and put nonslip decals in showers and on slippery stairs. You should also consider installing handles and grab bars in convenient locations.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Kennebunk, ME, Align Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. Trust Align Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (207) 606-8419.