Post-Stroke Changes that Can Make Staying at Home Safer

Enduring and going through recovery after a stroke is a mentally and physically challenging experience, and the only thing you long for is to get back to your day to day life. However, as many as 2/3 of survivors usually have some kind of disability, per the National Stroke Association, and in-home safety modifications may need to be made to make life post-stroke safer and easier.

The great news is that there are some simple and easy actions that can improve safety and accessibility for someone who is recovering from a stroke. Below are some post-stroke home modification guidelines from All Care, the top home care agency in Medford and the surrounding area:

Preventing Falls:

About 40% of stroke survivors undergo serious falls within the first year following their strokes. These recommendations can help lessen the risk of trips and falls in the home:

• Ensure that hallways and pathways to the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom are clear so the senior can move about with ease
• Think about installing platform lifts or stair glides for any stairs in the residence
• Remove or secure loose rugs
• Mount grab bars in the shower or bathtub
• Install a shower chair or tub bench
• Position non-slip mats inside and outside the tub

Ease Laundry Chores:

Taking care of laundry demands a great deal of lifting, reaching, bending, and pulling that could be challenging for someone recovering from a stroke. The following tips can help:

• Relocate washers and dryers to an area that is easily accessible
• Think about using stackable, front-loading machines that may be easier to reach
• Set up detergents and other laundry supplies in a location that is easy to reach
• Utilize an ironing board that folds down from the wall

Make the Bedroom Safer:

The bedroom is intended to be a place of sanctuary and safety. To make certain it stays that way after a stroke, consider these ideas:

• Place the bed close to the light switch
• Reorganize clothes and personal items to ensure they are easier to access
• Place a commode chair close to the bed

With our in-home safety evaluations and suggestions, All Care of Oregon can help make sure that your loved one’s home is safe and secure for stroke recovery. Our fully trained caregivers can also provide the care and assistance your loved one needs to improve recovery and make life more efficient. Call us today to learn more about our Oregon home care services.