When your loved one has survived a stroke, they are working hard to adjust to their 'new normal'. While they may be eager to get home from the hospital, some crucial adjustments need to be made to their home in order to keep them safe and mobile. 

Preparations will vary depending on the severity of the stroke, and your loved one's physical limitations.  Here are some things to consider as you get ready to bring your loved one home.

Start with a walk-through
Considering your loved ones mobility, and any assistance that they'll need to get around. For example, if they are using a walker, you'll want to measure the width of the walker, and move the furniture to allow for easier access.

Prevent falls
Make sure that any rugs or bath mats are slip proof. Install grab bars, particularly for getting in and out of the bathtub or shower.  You may want to install a bath & shower seat, to allow them to bathe without strain.

Provide easy access
Place frequently used items within reach in the kitchen, bathroom, and nightstand. For example, you may need to reshelve cups, glasses, plates, and basic pots and pans. Provide a reading lamp within reach on the nightstand, and move the clock closer to their bed.  If necessary, you may want to provide a commode for easier nighttime use.

At Caring Hands Caregivers, we have qualified staff to help your loved one adjust and care for your loved one in their home, post-stroke.  We can accompany you on the walk-through, make recommendations, and provide on-going guidance as needs change.  To get started, just send me an email at scott@chcgivers.com.

Depression among the elderly often goes untreated, as the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of aging. According to this article published by Philips Lifeline, anywhere from 14-20% of seniors exhibit some depressive symptoms.  That percentage is significantly higher for seniors in long-term care facilities.

Some potential symptoms of depression in seniors include:

• Social withdrawal--even when offered chances to socialize, depressed seniors will elect to not participate in activities.  Or, they can experience something called anhedonia, when they no longer enjoy activities that they used to love.
• Trouble concentrating--inability to focus on the task at hand, or low motivation to take a task all the way to completion.
• Neglecting personal care--decreased attention to basic grooming or oral hygiene, or not taking medication as prescribed.

For additional information and advice, read the full article.  If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from depression, they can get a thorough screening assessment free of charge for seniors covered by Medicare.  Treatment that includes therapy, medication, or some combination has proven to be effective in many cases. However, keeping involved in social interactions is key to making any treatment work.

If your loved one in the San Francisco Bay Area is in need of some help planning and getting to social activities, we can help by providing hourly care.  Just send me an email, and we can schedule an in-home care assessment.