Caregiver - Living with a Stroke Survivor | Caregiver and Stroke Survivor Tips
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What I Learned About Being a Caregiver for my Mom After she Survived a Major Stroke (CVA)
Given the choice, I would have never wanted to be a caregiver to a stroke survivor for all the money in the world. Why? Am I lazy? No. Do I shy away from a challenge? Heck no. Do I have compassion? You bet. BUT... The real reason I never wanted the job of caregiver, was because I never wanted to see someone so dear to me, who has been the most remarkable person to impact my life suffer so much.
I am a lot of things to many people, but first and foremost, I am a caregiver to my beautiful, loving mother, who suffered a CVA stroke that changed her life forever.
Unless you've been there, it's hard to imagine the experience of seeing a capable healthy-looking person, literally become disabled in an instant. Although it's been over seven years, I can remember it like it was yesterday; watching the paramedics rush in and seeing the fear in my mother's eyes as she sat there unable to move or speak. In that moment, I reassured her that everything was going to be alright.
What I didn't realize in that instant was that I had become the caregiver and we would embark on a journey of learning, strength and tears that would become part of who we are today. In that moment of reassurance, I learned my first lesson. Reassurance is hope and caring is giving.
Looking back, I realize how important the role of caregiver to my stroke survivor mom has been, how much we have shared and learned as a family and how this disease has given us the depth of character we have today. So, I've decided to share what I've learned as a caregiver with the hope that others in similar situations know that they are not alone. Here are a few more lessons on being a caregiver to a stroke survivor.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, there are times you will be frustrated, tired and worn out, but you have to remember this is nothing compared to the frustration of the person you are caring for, who is living with stroke. It's about them and you, but more about them and what they have lost to this disease.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, you will need an abundance of energy to take on the extra work and challenges because you are providing both physical and mental support to another person who is relying on you. Additionally, you have your own personal life which you are responsible for, so keep yourself healthy and take time to recharge.
When I first became a caregiver, I was scared, apprehensive and unsure of the situation. Caregiving did not come natural to me because the parent/child role reversal generally occurs over time as a parent ages and a sudden stroke does not afford you the luxury of growing into this role. But as time goes on rest assured that fear and awkwardness do subside and the relationship progresses.
As a caregiver, I have found that not only do I get more creative in solving everyday tasks, but my mom as a stroke survivor is also creative in finding solutions to accomplish day to day tasks. If we cannot handle something the way we use to, there is gratification in learning news ways to do things.
As a caregiver for a stroke survivor, there are times when you have to make the hard choices and judgment calls. I needed to tell my mother she was not safe to drive anymore and take away the car. Another time, I needed to call an ambulance and rush her to the hospital, when she said she was fine, but really wasn't. Sometimes you have to be the bad guy to make the right decision and it doesn't make you popular, but it does benefit the person you're caring for.
Embarrassment and shame. Imagine feeling horrified when you bump into old friends because you're now paralyzed in a wheelchair. I experienced this with my mom and now I understand it. At first we couldn't get her to leave the house at all. But later we would compromise and take her out to malls and restaurants further away from town, so she could feel more comfortable, enjoy getting out and not stay confined to the house.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, I've witnessed further debilitation over the years, as a result of paralysis. Physical ailments like muscle apathy, restless legs, stiffness and inability to stretch limbs, leg cramping and poor blood circulation are just a few of the ways this disease has manifested over the years with my mom's illness. The worst prognosis were even more life threatening things such as seizures and blood clots.
Although none of this sounds like a picnic, over time, you need to set what I call "A New Normal" and this can only happen once you begin to accept that things are never going to be the exact way they use to be and live with the way things are. And that doesn't mean life is bad...it just means life is now different. Acceptance is the key.
(Update - Mom just celebrated her 79th birthday in 2010 and her 7th year as a stroke survivor. She also rang in the New Year 2011! And although she also suffers from extreme Deep Vein Thrombosis from the stroke, she's been doing well!)
I am a lot of things to many people, but first and foremost, I am a caregiver to my beautiful, loving mother, who suffered a CVA stroke that changed her life forever.
Unless you've been there, it's hard to imagine the experience of seeing a capable healthy-looking person, literally become disabled in an instant. Although it's been over seven years, I can remember it like it was yesterday; watching the paramedics rush in and seeing the fear in my mother's eyes as she sat there unable to move or speak. In that moment, I reassured her that everything was going to be alright.
What I didn't realize in that instant was that I had become the caregiver and we would embark on a journey of learning, strength and tears that would become part of who we are today. In that moment of reassurance, I learned my first lesson. Reassurance is hope and caring is giving.
Looking back, I realize how important the role of caregiver to my stroke survivor mom has been, how much we have shared and learned as a family and how this disease has given us the depth of character we have today. So, I've decided to share what I've learned as a caregiver with the hope that others in similar situations know that they are not alone. Here are a few more lessons on being a caregiver to a stroke survivor.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, there are times you will be frustrated, tired and worn out, but you have to remember this is nothing compared to the frustration of the person you are caring for, who is living with stroke. It's about them and you, but more about them and what they have lost to this disease.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, you will need an abundance of energy to take on the extra work and challenges because you are providing both physical and mental support to another person who is relying on you. Additionally, you have your own personal life which you are responsible for, so keep yourself healthy and take time to recharge.
When I first became a caregiver, I was scared, apprehensive and unsure of the situation. Caregiving did not come natural to me because the parent/child role reversal generally occurs over time as a parent ages and a sudden stroke does not afford you the luxury of growing into this role. But as time goes on rest assured that fear and awkwardness do subside and the relationship progresses.
As a caregiver, I have found that not only do I get more creative in solving everyday tasks, but my mom as a stroke survivor is also creative in finding solutions to accomplish day to day tasks. If we cannot handle something the way we use to, there is gratification in learning news ways to do things.
As a caregiver for a stroke survivor, there are times when you have to make the hard choices and judgment calls. I needed to tell my mother she was not safe to drive anymore and take away the car. Another time, I needed to call an ambulance and rush her to the hospital, when she said she was fine, but really wasn't. Sometimes you have to be the bad guy to make the right decision and it doesn't make you popular, but it does benefit the person you're caring for.
Embarrassment and shame. Imagine feeling horrified when you bump into old friends because you're now paralyzed in a wheelchair. I experienced this with my mom and now I understand it. At first we couldn't get her to leave the house at all. But later we would compromise and take her out to malls and restaurants further away from town, so she could feel more comfortable, enjoy getting out and not stay confined to the house.
As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, I've witnessed further debilitation over the years, as a result of paralysis. Physical ailments like muscle apathy, restless legs, stiffness and inability to stretch limbs, leg cramping and poor blood circulation are just a few of the ways this disease has manifested over the years with my mom's illness. The worst prognosis were even more life threatening things such as seizures and blood clots.
Although none of this sounds like a picnic, over time, you need to set what I call "A New Normal" and this can only happen once you begin to accept that things are never going to be the exact way they use to be and live with the way things are. And that doesn't mean life is bad...it just means life is now different. Acceptance is the key.
(Update - Mom just celebrated her 79th birthday in 2010 and her 7th year as a stroke survivor. She also rang in the New Year 2011! And although she also suffers from extreme Deep Vein Thrombosis from the stroke, she's been doing well!)
Contents at a Glance
- Caregiver and Stroke Survivor Online Res...
- Caregiver: What You Learn While Giving C...
- Are you a caregiver or stroke survivor c...
- Products that Really Help Caregivers and...
- 10 Caregiver Tips for Stroke Survivors
- Helpful Books for Caregivers
- Stroke Survivor Books
- Helpful Books on Aphasia
- Stroke Patient Care Books
Caregiver and Stroke Survivor Online Resources
- Caregiver.com
- Caregiver.com is a leading provider of information and support for family and caregivers. Founded in 1995, they produce, Today's Caregiver magazine, the first national magazine dedicated to caregivers.
- The National Aphasia Association
- The National Aphasia Association (NAA) is a nonprofit organization that promotes education, research, rehabilitation and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families.
- The Stroke Network
- The Stroke Network website provides online stroke support and information resources.
- The American Heart Association
- The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency to help reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
- The Internet Stroke Center
- The Internet Stroke Center website is a non-profit, educational service of the Stroke Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine.
- Know the Symptoms of a Stroke
- Do you know the symptoms of a stroke? A stroke is a health condition that can occur unpredictably and cause permanent damage. But knowing stroke basics can help you be better react to the stroke in a timely manner.
Caregiver: What You Learn While Giving Care May Surprise You
Being a caregiver for my stroke survivor mom has taught me, our mom is still our mom. She is the same person we've always loved who has endure a devastating disability that has changed her life forever, but not who she is in her heart. It's also changed the lives of all of us who love her. We understand mom's frustration with paralysis, asphasia, pain management and muscle atrophy that she has no control over and try to do what we can to get her through it. Sometimes you can joke things away and other times you just have to cry together. When I get frustrated with her limitations, I have to ask myself things like, "What if it were me who couldn't walk out into my own back yard?" Then, everything goes back into perspective.
Being a caregiver for a stroke survivor has taught me how to be a better multi-tasker and do things in two's - 2 grocery lists, 2 checkbooks to balance and 2 refrigerators to clean out at the end of each week and I'm a better planner. I am also lucky enough to have a great sister who shares half of the caregiving, so her and I can give each other a break. I can't imagine doing all of this without her and we are fortunate enough to have family members pitching in when it all gets too crazy.
Illness and caregiving reminds us of our own mortality and that any one of us can become ill at any time. As a caregiver, I don't take health related matters for granted. If I'm not feeling well, I go to the doctor and when I'm over-tired, I go to sleep early. If anyone in my family looks like they need medical assistance, I don't hesitate to get it right away. Our health is a gift that needs to be taken care of and is the foundation of living a life without limitations.
When you're a caregiver to a stroke survivor, spending quality time with loved ones who are homebound is far more important than vacuuming your carpet or getting your ironing done and on a really good day, you might accomplish all three. On days when there's too much work and not enough time, mom's housework or errands come first, as I know how much better it makes her feel - and that's enough to make me feel better!
Being a caregiver for a stroke survivor has taught me how to be a better multi-tasker and do things in two's - 2 grocery lists, 2 checkbooks to balance and 2 refrigerators to clean out at the end of each week and I'm a better planner. I am also lucky enough to have a great sister who shares half of the caregiving, so her and I can give each other a break. I can't imagine doing all of this without her and we are fortunate enough to have family members pitching in when it all gets too crazy.
Illness and caregiving reminds us of our own mortality and that any one of us can become ill at any time. As a caregiver, I don't take health related matters for granted. If I'm not feeling well, I go to the doctor and when I'm over-tired, I go to sleep early. If anyone in my family looks like they need medical assistance, I don't hesitate to get it right away. Our health is a gift that needs to be taken care of and is the foundation of living a life without limitations.
When you're a caregiver to a stroke survivor, spending quality time with loved ones who are homebound is far more important than vacuuming your carpet or getting your ironing done and on a really good day, you might accomplish all three. On days when there's too much work and not enough time, mom's housework or errands come first, as I know how much better it makes her feel - and that's enough to make me feel better!
Are you a caregiver or stroke survivor confined to your home and want to make a little money?
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Products that Really Help Caregivers and their Stroke Survivor Loved Ones
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Med/Lift Power/Electric Recliner Med-Lift Lift/Chair
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Medline Quad Cane, Small Base, Black
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10 Caregiver Tips for Stroke Survivors
1. As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, ask questions and learn as much as you can about the illness of your loved one, so you can fully understand the condition. For instance, seizures can develop within one year after having a stroke, especially in people who have had a CVA, (brain bleed) type stroke. This is something we never knew, until it happened to my mom and at the time, the symptoms looked just like another stroke. But, don't think a seizure is less serious. Trust me. You need to respond with medical assistance as quickly as if the person were having a stroke.
2. Being a caregiver for a paralyzed stroke survivor is physically demanding. If you need to lift or transport your loved one be sure to protect yourself from back injuries or use a another person to assist because if you pull your back out not only will you be laid up for a few days, but you will not be able to care for your loved one who's probably relying on you to be there for them.
3. Being a caregiver can be isolating, so don't be embarrassed to take the kindness of strangers, when you're in a safe environment like inside of a store or restaurant. Sure, even I don't ask for help in dark parking lots. But, if I drop my groceries, while pushing a wheelchair or cannot navigate mom's wheelchair through a store, I'm more than happy to take the help and I find that people are more than willing to give it.
4. It's natural to have fear when dealing with something we don't fully understand. It's also difficult to acknowledge our inner feelings associated with the illness of a loved one, but don't be afraid to share your feelings and emotions and have heart to heart conversations. As a caregiver, sometimes its a major relief to acknowledge the pink elephant in the room and say whatever it is that you're struggling with.
5. As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, with so many other responsibilities, any product that cuts down housework time is a plus in my book. Some of my favorite handy helpers are Swiffer Sweepers, Clorox Wipes, Fabreze, Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner, Downy Wrinkle Releaser and Evercare Lint Rollers. These are my favorites because not only do they save me time, but my mom, even wheelchair bound from stroke, can use these items quite easily as well.
6. If you're a busy caregiver, use your cell phone when you are out running errands - but wait till you park the car. I've gotten into the habit of calling my mom before I go into the grocery store, deli, pharmacy or anywhere, to check if she needs anything. And since she cannot drive, she appreciates it even if she's just craving an ice cream sundae or a box of chocolates. Little things really do mean a lot!
7. Hindsight really is 20/20. During these past few years, we've investigated treatment such as physical therapy and stretching to extend flexibility and ease spasticity of muscles. We tried Botox arm injections to loosen up an arm that was locked in a curled position. We learned that a stroke survivor should be scanned for blood clots due to immobility and may require a stent to block future clots, (something we did for my mom).
8. As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, it' very important to keep an updated medication list for the person you're caring for, as well as any allergies to other medications or food. Also, it just makes sense to use only one pharmacy source to keep track of any drug interactions. Because we always had to keep track of so many medications, we opted for a 90 day mail-in prescription service and use a weekly pill box to set up medications.
9. Telephones have always been a pet peeve of my mom's since her stroke. She has aphasia and hates it when people cannot understand her. Also she only has use of one arm so writing while talking on a phone is also a problem which is why a good wireless, desktop phone with speaker phone built-in makes a big difference.
10. Also, since mom's stroke, she cannot control her body temperature, so she's always colder than the rest of us in the house. So, we usually dress her in layers, keep a lot of small stadium blankets around the house and got her a small space heater on a timer.
2. Being a caregiver for a paralyzed stroke survivor is physically demanding. If you need to lift or transport your loved one be sure to protect yourself from back injuries or use a another person to assist because if you pull your back out not only will you be laid up for a few days, but you will not be able to care for your loved one who's probably relying on you to be there for them.
3. Being a caregiver can be isolating, so don't be embarrassed to take the kindness of strangers, when you're in a safe environment like inside of a store or restaurant. Sure, even I don't ask for help in dark parking lots. But, if I drop my groceries, while pushing a wheelchair or cannot navigate mom's wheelchair through a store, I'm more than happy to take the help and I find that people are more than willing to give it.
4. It's natural to have fear when dealing with something we don't fully understand. It's also difficult to acknowledge our inner feelings associated with the illness of a loved one, but don't be afraid to share your feelings and emotions and have heart to heart conversations. As a caregiver, sometimes its a major relief to acknowledge the pink elephant in the room and say whatever it is that you're struggling with.
5. As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, with so many other responsibilities, any product that cuts down housework time is a plus in my book. Some of my favorite handy helpers are Swiffer Sweepers, Clorox Wipes, Fabreze, Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner, Downy Wrinkle Releaser and Evercare Lint Rollers. These are my favorites because not only do they save me time, but my mom, even wheelchair bound from stroke, can use these items quite easily as well.
6. If you're a busy caregiver, use your cell phone when you are out running errands - but wait till you park the car. I've gotten into the habit of calling my mom before I go into the grocery store, deli, pharmacy or anywhere, to check if she needs anything. And since she cannot drive, she appreciates it even if she's just craving an ice cream sundae or a box of chocolates. Little things really do mean a lot!
7. Hindsight really is 20/20. During these past few years, we've investigated treatment such as physical therapy and stretching to extend flexibility and ease spasticity of muscles. We tried Botox arm injections to loosen up an arm that was locked in a curled position. We learned that a stroke survivor should be scanned for blood clots due to immobility and may require a stent to block future clots, (something we did for my mom).
8. As a caregiver to a stroke survivor, it' very important to keep an updated medication list for the person you're caring for, as well as any allergies to other medications or food. Also, it just makes sense to use only one pharmacy source to keep track of any drug interactions. Because we always had to keep track of so many medications, we opted for a 90 day mail-in prescription service and use a weekly pill box to set up medications.
9. Telephones have always been a pet peeve of my mom's since her stroke. She has aphasia and hates it when people cannot understand her. Also she only has use of one arm so writing while talking on a phone is also a problem which is why a good wireless, desktop phone with speaker phone built-in makes a big difference.
10. Also, since mom's stroke, she cannot control her body temperature, so she's always colder than the rest of us in the house. So, we usually dress her in layers, keep a lot of small stadium blankets around the house and got her a small space heater on a timer.
Please note that I am just sharing my personal experience and ideas and in no way am suggesting medical advice in regards to any information here. When in doubt, always seek professional medical assistance, which is what I do.
Helpful Books for Caregivers
Stroke Survivor Books
Helpful Books on Aphasia
Stroke Patient Care Books
Preventing Heart Disease
Could Your Stroke Have Been Prevented?
What if you could start doing things NOW with your heart health to prevent a debilitating stroke later in life? Unfortunately, it's something that many people don't think about until it's too late. Or maybe they're doing what they believe is healthy, only to find out later it wasn't.
Do you know how raising your cholesterol can protect your heart?
Do you know what you can drink every day (not red wine) that can reduce your risk of heart disease by 40% or more.
Do you know what the best test is for preventating heart disease - one that your doctor may not even mention to you?
Do you know what you need to do even occasionally to prevent DOUBLING your chance of having a heart attack? Best of all, it doesn't cost you a cent.
Do you know which natural safe mineral can actually REDUCE the indicators of heart disease?
Do you know why taking an aspirin-a-day could actually give you a stroke?
Are you taking the one simple amino acid that helps restore normal blood pressure and open clogged arteries?
Don't wait till it's too late. Your health is the most precious asset you have and you need to be proactive to preserve it, in order to live they life you want and deserve. With a history of both stroke and heart attack inmy family, I'm now taking every step for my loved ones and self to prevent this horribly, crippling desease from ever invading our precious lives again!
A debilitating stroke affects your daily living, mental health, well being, relationships, income, freedom and everyone who loves you. Don't wait till it's too late. Learn all you can and get on a healthy heart plan today!
Do you know how raising your cholesterol can protect your heart?
Do you know what you can drink every day (not red wine) that can reduce your risk of heart disease by 40% or more.
Do you know what the best test is for preventating heart disease - one that your doctor may not even mention to you?
Do you know what you need to do even occasionally to prevent DOUBLING your chance of having a heart attack? Best of all, it doesn't cost you a cent.
Do you know which natural safe mineral can actually REDUCE the indicators of heart disease?
Do you know why taking an aspirin-a-day could actually give you a stroke?
Are you taking the one simple amino acid that helps restore normal blood pressure and open clogged arteries?
Don't wait till it's too late. Your health is the most precious asset you have and you need to be proactive to preserve it, in order to live they life you want and deserve. With a history of both stroke and heart attack inmy family, I'm now taking every step for my loved ones and self to prevent this horribly, crippling desease from ever invading our precious lives again!
A debilitating stroke affects your daily living, mental health, well being, relationships, income, freedom and everyone who loves you. Don't wait till it's too late. Learn all you can and get on a healthy heart plan today!
Caregiver and Caregiving Resource Books
How Caregivers Can Take Care of Themselves
Because it's important to take care of my own health and mental well being
Lately, as the affects of stroke have progressed in my mother, the demand of caring for her as become more strenuous and emotionally draining. She use to have slight mobility to stand up for a minute and pivot. But now excessive blood clots in her legs have made her completely dead weight and even more homebound than before. So now, we're dealing with her being lonely when I have to go out, guilt, worry and added stress. So, here are a few ways I manage my own health and mental well being.
1. Take time out alone. Whether it's a 20 minute walk, taking a drive, doing some pilates or gardening in the yard, get your quiet time as much as you can to recharge your batteries.
2. Have the painfully honest family talks and let your spouse, siblings and children understand what you're going through and ask what they can do to assist. Some family members may be able to do visits, others may be able to run errands or cook a meal for you. But it's very important to get everyone working with you as a team.
3. Maintain open dialog with the person you are caring for and let them know what your limitations are. Co-dependency and monopolizing so much of your time that your exhausted, needs to be addressed and you will need to pull back on your hours of caregiving.
4. If you tell the person you are caring for that they are too heavy for you to lift or to put into a car, don't let them talk you into it, even if they are arguing, calling you a wimp or using guilt on you. This is part of their own frustration and a way of exercising independence. But if you give in, it will take a toll on your own physical well being.
5. Schedule weekend get-aways, vacations and plans out with friends, well in advance so you have the coverage you need to get away and enjoy some down time. When you can't get away, plan an at home movie day that you and your loved one can enjoy together.
6. I have nights when I only keep my cell phone on for emergencies and to screen all calls. The reason being is, after a long day of caregiving, it's my time and even though some people think I'm sitting around on my tush all day, evenings are the only time I have for my personal life, errands, housework and chores.
7. Have a nice lunch with the person you're caring for. If they are homebound you can use that time to putter in the kitchen, watch the Food Network, flip through cookbooks and make something you can enjoy together.
8. My absolute favorite way to relax is taking a hot bath. Of course I have to take the cell phone with me, but I tell my mom I'll be washing my hair so if she needs anything, tell me ahead of time. It sounds funny, but the bathroom is a great place to be left alone.
1. Take time out alone. Whether it's a 20 minute walk, taking a drive, doing some pilates or gardening in the yard, get your quiet time as much as you can to recharge your batteries.
2. Have the painfully honest family talks and let your spouse, siblings and children understand what you're going through and ask what they can do to assist. Some family members may be able to do visits, others may be able to run errands or cook a meal for you. But it's very important to get everyone working with you as a team.
3. Maintain open dialog with the person you are caring for and let them know what your limitations are. Co-dependency and monopolizing so much of your time that your exhausted, needs to be addressed and you will need to pull back on your hours of caregiving.
4. If you tell the person you are caring for that they are too heavy for you to lift or to put into a car, don't let them talk you into it, even if they are arguing, calling you a wimp or using guilt on you. This is part of their own frustration and a way of exercising independence. But if you give in, it will take a toll on your own physical well being.
5. Schedule weekend get-aways, vacations and plans out with friends, well in advance so you have the coverage you need to get away and enjoy some down time. When you can't get away, plan an at home movie day that you and your loved one can enjoy together.
6. I have nights when I only keep my cell phone on for emergencies and to screen all calls. The reason being is, after a long day of caregiving, it's my time and even though some people think I'm sitting around on my tush all day, evenings are the only time I have for my personal life, errands, housework and chores.
7. Have a nice lunch with the person you're caring for. If they are homebound you can use that time to putter in the kitchen, watch the Food Network, flip through cookbooks and make something you can enjoy together.
8. My absolute favorite way to relax is taking a hot bath. Of course I have to take the cell phone with me, but I tell my mom I'll be washing my hair so if she needs anything, tell me ahead of time. It sounds funny, but the bathroom is a great place to be left alone.
More Thoughts and Other Great Lenses on being a Caregiver to a Stroke Survivor
Over seven years ago when my sister and I became a caregivers, we couldn't find enough support resources and truly felt helpless - not to mention how devastated my mom was with her condition. In the beginning, it was difficult, because as a caregiver, you deal with the emotional side of the illness while trying to accept the physical changes of your loved one - all while trying to remain upbeat and offer ongoing support and hope. If you've been through it or are going through it, you know that it's just not an easy thing since there are so many lifestyle changes the stroke survivor and their caregiver must learn together. The truth is we never stop learning and here are a few more lenses that you will find informative.
Stroke Magazines You Can Get for Free!
Learn more about stroke survivors and caregivers
Here are a couple of free publications specifically for stroke survivors and their caregivers. Stroke Connection is one that my mom and I both read and can relate to quite a bit. Stroke Smart I recently discovered.
- Stroke Connection Magazine
- A publication for stroke survivors and caregivers
- Stroke Smart Magazine
- A publication for stroke survivors and caregivers
Making Life More Comfortable for a Stroke Survivor
It's the little things a caregiver does that counts most, like sharing conversation and a cup of tea!
Photo Credit:
Metro
Medical Online
Healthcare Products for Caregivers and Their Loved Ones
- Life Alert
- Personal Emergency Response Systems
- National Adult Day Services Association
- Adult Day Care Resources
- Handicap Vans
- Ride Service for the Disabled
- Care Giver Products
- Specializes in stroke caregiving products, disability aids, stroke care products, nursing home supplies and home medical supplies
- Meals On Wheels Association of America
- Home Delivered Meals for Homebound, Disabled and Elderly
- AmRamp
- Outdoor Wheelchair Ramps from America's Leading Ramp Company
- Silverts
- Disabled Adaptive Clothing, Senior Elderly Care Clothing, Shoes & Slippers
Caregivers Who Also Are Employed
- Guidance Regarding Unlawful Treatment of Workers With Caregiving Responsibilities
- This website provides guidance regarding unlawful treatment under the federal EEO laws of workers with caregiving responsibilities.
Support and Mobility Products for Stroke Survivors
Over the years, we have found that support and mobility products are a must for stroke survivors. We use everything from bed bars to extra hand rails around the house. Not only do these things create a safer environment, but they make life a little more comfortable as well. Back support is another thing my mom requires more of as she has aged, because it improves eating and digestion, as well as aches and pains.
Photo Credit:
www.DrLeonards.com
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Photo Credit:
www.DrLeonards.com
Caregivers Little Helper - Lift Cushion
As a caregiver, I've found that using a lift cushion like the one shown here is ideal for stand-up exercises to strengthen my moms legs and regain some strength. I assist her in doing a few stand-ups, guiding her up and letting her stand about a minute or so. (Please note: A lift cushion works with chairs, sofas and couches that are against a wall that are stable and are not going to move, when the person sits down.
This device is not intended for wheelchairs as it not practical or safe, so DO NOT try to put it on your loved one's wheelchair and think you can leave them alone to work with it, again it's not intended for wheelchairs. However, we use it successfully to assist with stand-up exercises because my mom sits many hours a day. Who would have thought a device made to assist with sitting up would be a great leg strengthener when used with a caregiver.
This device is not intended for wheelchairs as it not practical or safe, so DO NOT try to put it on your loved one's wheelchair and think you can leave them alone to work with it, again it's not intended for wheelchairs. However, we use it successfully to assist with stand-up exercises because my mom sits many hours a day. Who would have thought a device made to assist with sitting up would be a great leg strengthener when used with a caregiver.
Mobility Products on eBay
Where Does the Caregiving Journey End?
Caring for an ill loved is an ongoing job, especially when the disease is stroke and affects so many facets of your physical and mental well-being. So where does the caregiving journey end? Someone said something very profound to me on a night when I was feeling tired, whiny and nursing a sore back from too much lifting. They reminded me that I still have a mom I can go see every day and that's a really good feeling.
So for now, the journey doesn't end and that's OK with me. The thing we have to realize, is we all have one thing in common and that is - we are all growing older every day. The young of today are the elderly of tomorrow. Healthy people can become ill and ill people can become healthy, but the important thing is to be as happy as you can be within your circumstance.
Healthy, ill, old or young what's important is the time we share caring about eachother and the memories we create which will span beyond a lifetime. So the next time you see a fragile person in a wheelchair being pushed by a clumsy woman struggling to get into a restaurant, so they can get to the all you can eat shrimp bar, don't be alarmed...it's probably just my mom and me out creating more memories.
So for now, the journey doesn't end and that's OK with me. The thing we have to realize, is we all have one thing in common and that is - we are all growing older every day. The young of today are the elderly of tomorrow. Healthy people can become ill and ill people can become healthy, but the important thing is to be as happy as you can be within your circumstance.
Healthy, ill, old or young what's important is the time we share caring about eachother and the memories we create which will span beyond a lifetime. So the next time you see a fragile person in a wheelchair being pushed by a clumsy woman struggling to get into a restaurant, so they can get to the all you can eat shrimp bar, don't be alarmed...it's probably just my mom and me out creating more memories.
What Are Your Thoughts?
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bichons9 Mar 19, 2012 @ 12:14 am | delete
- WOW..there is so much to digest here. Your story is amazing..I have to think now!!!
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ideadesigns
Sep 17, 2011 @ 12:30 pm | delete
- This is a really amazing page. You've shared your most inner thoughts and feelings about caring for your mom. It's very hard to adjust and get into a new role, but it's so important to care for our elderly. Thanks for this very helpful and heartfelt lens. We lost our grandpa a couple years ago to Parkinsons and now take care of our grandma who is 88 she had a stroke a few years ago and is doing great. She needs encouragement to keep her hopes up, one day at a time. :)
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The_Idea_Gal
Sep 17, 2011 @ 6:27 pm | delete
- Thanks so much for your heartfelt sentiments and I wish you the best with your grandma. Some day we will all get older and can only hope we stay well with our loved ones.
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vallain Aug 13, 2011 @ 11:55 pm | delete
- You've packed a lot of information into this web page. Thanks for sharing what you've learned over the years of caring for your mom. Blessed by a squid angel and featured on You've Been Blessed.
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garneth
Jul 19, 2011 @ 1:40 am | delete
- I salute those daughters and son are serve their parents, its highly appreciated even for a simple help at work at home like cleaning, washing,..ect.
Wheelchair Access Ramps
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gonzalezdenise
Apr 23, 2011 @ 10:07 am | delete
- Very resourceful lens. Thanks
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gottaloveit
Mar 31, 2011 @ 6:32 pm | delete
- You've made me cry. I am a fulltime caregiver for my 94 year old darling mother and have the exact same thoughts you do while caring for your adorable mom. So few people understand what we go through, both physically and emotionally, and the pain we too suffer as we watch life change. I've long thought of 'the new normal' and the sorrow and the happiness that every single day brings. Thanks so much for this excellent lens. You've inspired me to write a better lens about my mom and caregiving.
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debnet
Mar 29, 2011 @ 2:54 am | delete
- Thank heavens for people such as yourself. Make sure to give some time to yourself too and get some pampering in! You deserve it. Lensrolled to 'Brain Tumor''
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deep cycle battery
Jan 4, 2011 @ 8:50 pm | delete
- my granny needs this facilities, thanks for sharing
deep cycle battery
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SusanVillasLewis
Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:02 pm | delete
- My mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor just a couple of months ago and we've been going through our own caregiver journey. Thanks for sharing your story.
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by The_Idea_Gal
Hi, I'm Denise aka "The Idea Gal" and I'm new to Squidoo. I've worked with technology and in marketing most of my career, but right now, I'm a web fre... more »
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