Stroke And Caregiver

Three-fourths of seniors over 65 will suffer the challenge of stroke and recovery in their latter years. It has no preferences; rich, poor, female, male; all can become a victim of this debilitating illness. It is a frightening and traumatic time as most elderly victims are left with some brain injury leaving them unable to move, talk or think clearly.

Most strokes are ischemic, (is-KEE-mic), caused by a reduced blood flow to the brain allowing brain cells to die from lack of oxygen. Memory can be affected and often leaves the victim unable to do simple tasks such as cutting their food, dressing or personal hygiene.

My husband, a senior, has suffered his second ischemic stroke in five years. He did not incur major physical damage, maintains mobility in his arms, legs and did not suffer any speech impairment. But he cannot remember dates or phone numbers and may never read again. Conversation can be very frustrating and exhausting. We are learning to cope.

Your role as caregiver is thrust upon you without preparation. The initial shock is one of panic and devastation as you see your loved one taken away by ambulance. Yesterday you were golfing, hiking, but today, there is no tomorrow. The most important factor in the rehabilitation of the patient is the caring of family and friends. Many decisions have to be made quickly and YOU have to be up to it.

Do a check list; Take care of yourself first. This means rest and eating well. Have a notebook for all the medical information you won't remember. Have a friend phone family. You need support. You will grieve.

The patient will be in acute care until stabilized then it is long term care in a hospital or at home, depending on the seriousness of the stroke damage. Elderly stroke victims are prone to falls and require supervision most of the time in the early recovery stages. They may have to learn to dress again, need help with medications, and always the endless driving to therapy and doctors' offices. Did I mention a lot of patience?

Advice will be handed to you by family and friends as to the care of the patient. Listen only to your doctor and professionals who are involved. Learn from the therapist how to administer simple therapy exercises. This sends a signal of love to the patient who needs assurance they are not being abandoned. Arrange for some quality time for yourself, to recharge so to speak. Remember you too are senior. Maybe you play bridge or golf. This personal space is yours so do not feel guilty.

Take time to laugh with the patient. The first few weeks my husband (who was insistent he could do it himself) put his teeth in upside down or wore his jacket inside out, creating a comic situation. Your life has changed but eventually a new pattern emerges, one that proves seniors can cope with adjustment and lead healthy lives, even though it is a bit slower.

By: ElderlyElder

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