What caring for stroke survivors means
People who have suffered a stroke can feel that they are in a devastating physical and emotional state in the face of the seemingly insurmountable aftermath. In cases like this, stroke recovery dramatically depends on the survivor’s support system. Loved ones offer their survivor hope for the future while assisting them along their path to recovery.
It is not uncommon for the stress of caring for a stroke survivor to occasionally appear to be too much to handle. The person you love seems to be someone else entirely, and that can make it hard to remain strong-spirited.
Even though they may not be able to tell you how they feel, your survivor understands the situation is stressful for everyone involved. There are universal truths that every stroke survivor wished their loved ones understood to aid in their recovery while maintaining familial peace.
Understanding the feelings of a stroke survivor
“I am still me.”
Even though they may not be smiling, laughing or joking in the same regard as before, your loved one is still there. They are the same person you knew before the stroke, and they will be the same person for as long as you know them. A stroke has inconceivable cognitive effects, and temporary personality changes are not atypical.
“I require patience.”
They may take longer to understand what you are saying or to think of the right words to respond with, but your loved one is trying. Do not rush them for a response, and do not rush them to keep up. They are in the process of relearning everything that you take for granted in knowing. They will need your help in managing life at home after their stroke. It will take time, and your patience is invaluable during this period.
“I am not lazy.”
Rest is essential to stroke recovery. If someone twisted their ankle, you wouldn’t expect them to go running on it. It works the same way for a brain injury. Your loved one is sleeping so much because their brain takes time to heal. They can only make so much progress toward recovery in one day before they need to rest. Do not make them feel inadequate for being fatigued and needing frequent breaks.
“I still want to enjoy life.”
The human experience is irreplaceable. Even after a stroke, there is still an innate desire to engage in new and fun activities. Personal interests linger after a stroke. Plan activities that everyone can take part in, and be accommodating of your survivor. Understand that they may not be able to do what they always wanted but offer safe alternatives.
“I am not my emotions.”
It is typical for stroke survivors to have difficulty controlling their emotions. A common post-stroke condition is a pseudobulbar affect, which results in inappropriate bouts of laughter or crying. These emotions are not likely aligned with the survivor’s present mindset but are instead the result of traumatic brain injury.
“I value your efforts.”
It is not easy to stay a level-headed caregiver at all times. It is likely impossible that there will never be slip-ups. But every effort taken is greatly appreciated by your survivor. Every day that you spend working with them and loving them, they are one day closer to recovery. That you are a loving caregiver capable of amazing things, you have proven alone by taking time to read this article.
If you know someone who has suffered a stroke, understand that there is hope for further recovery. Call our clinic today at +1 855 426 4623 to learn more about our revolutionary, regenerative treatment.
