In-Home Caregiving Interventions For Stroke Patients

The consequences of a stroke can be devastating for both the survivor and their family. While many stroke patients recover with only minimal residual weakness or other mild neurological deficits, others may experience permanent paralysis, blindness, severe cognitive deficits, incontinence, and swallowing problems. Nursing home placement is an option for stroke survivors and their families. If, however, placing your loved one in a nursing home is not the right choice for you, then consider hiring a family caregiver, who can provide the stroke survivor with the following services.

Skin And Incontinent Care

Proper skin and incontinent care are essential for stroke survivors because they may be at a greater risk for developing stasis wounds and pressure ulcers. If the stroke survivor has incontinent episodes of urine or stool, the family caregiver will provide prompt care. Urine and stool are irritating to the delicate skin of the perianal area, and if not quickly cleaned with warm, soapy water, then skin may become sore and excoriated.

Many stroke patients are unable to reposition themselves while in bed, and if not repositioned every couple of hours, pressure will be placed on the hips, spine, ankle, heels, and other bony protrusions of the body, leading to pressure ulcers.

In addition to repositioning the individual, the family caregiver can also massage the skin with a hypoallergenic moisturizer to relieve dryness and promote circulation. If any skin breakdown or other abnormalities such as redness, inflammation, blisters, or wounds are noticed, the caregiver can notify the physician who will recommend the appropriate treatment.

PROM Exercises

If the stroke patient is paralyzed, then they will be unable to exercise in order to promote circulation. The family caregiver can perform PROM exercises on the upper and lower extremities to help promote blood flow. PROM exercises, also known as passive range of motion exercises refer to when someone other than the patient moves their limbs through various range of motion movements, hence the name "passive."

In addition to encouraging circulation, PROM exercises can also help prevent painful contractures from developing in the hands while helping to reduce muscle spasticity that is common in those with neurological problems associated with stroke, spinal cord injuries, and multiple sclerosis. 

If your loved one had a stroke and wants to remain in their home instead of moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility, contact a home health agency representative to learn about its family caregiver program. The agency representative can answer your questions pertaining to your loved one's needs so you can determine which level of care is most appropriate for the stroke survivor.

For more information, contact a local company, like Celestial Care Inc.