Specialized Care for Stroke Recovery
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when there is a blockage in the blood supply to the brain or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds. According to the CDC, stroke is the number one cause of death in America. In fact, every year, around 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke.
Since there is not oxygen getting to the brain, the brain cells and tissue become damaged and start dying within minutes. There are 3 types of strokes:
- TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
- Ischemic stroke
- Hemorrhagic stroke
Symptoms of Stroke
Lack of blood flow to the brain causes tissues to become damaged and the symptoms of stroke show up in the areas of the body that are controlled by the areas that have been damaged. The sooner a stroke victim can get care, the better the outcome will be. This is why it’s a good idea to know the signs of stroke:
- Numbness/weakness in arm, leg, and face- especially on one side of the body
- Slurred speech
- Paralysis
- Confusion/disorientation
- Lack of responsiveness
- Difficulty speaking
- Difficulty understanding others
- Difficulty walking
- Vision problems
- Behavioral changes, such as increased agitation
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance/coordination
- Seizures
- Severe, sudden headaches with no clear cause
A stroke requires immediate medical care. If you think you or a loved one is having a stroke, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately. It’s best to be cautious when a stroke is suspected, so don’t be afraid to call emergency services if you notice the signs of a stroke.
Why People May Need Assistance with Recovery
The number one goal of rehabilitation, or rehab, after stroke is to help the survivor become independent. It should be done in a way that preserves their dignity and motivates them to relearn basics such as walking, bathing, dressing, and eating. Typically, rehab can begin in the hospital within 2 days of a stroke, as long as the patient’s condition is stable and continue after your release with at-home care with professionals from Gentle Shepherd Home Care if you are in or near Colorado Springs.
What is included in recovery care?
There are lots of approaches to stroke recovery care- but rehab is typically centered around focused, repetitive actions- that is, doing the same thing over and over. The rehab plan will depend upon the area of the body or the ability affected by the stroke.
Physical Activities
- Motor-skill exercises
- Mobility training
- Constraint-induced therapy
- Range of motion therapy
Technology Assisted Physical Activities
- Functional electrical stimulation
- Robotic technology
- Virtual reality
- Wireless technology
Cognitive/Emotional Activities
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Therapy for communication disorders
- Psychological evaluation/treatment
- Medication
In Home Care with Gentle Shepherd
We are different than other recoveries because we provide a personal approach to recovery. We work with the patient and the family to provide qualified, compassionate, trustworthy care for seniors and chronically ill patients so they can remain in their homes. We offer respite care for caregivers so you can take care of your errands or just relax. We only hire caregivers that we would trust with our own family members. If you or a loved one needs in-home care in Colorado Springs, contact Gentle Shepherd Home Care and let us show you what we have to offer.
