Strokes usually happen quickly and can do quite a bit of damage. However, recovering from a stroke is typically a slow process that can take months and even years. It’s difficult to tell exactly how long it will take because recovery time differs from person to person. If your senior loved one recently had a stroke, there are some general points you should keep in mind.
The First Few Days
When the team of doctors and nurses at the hospital realize someone is having a stroke, they get to work immediately. Fast treatment is often the key to survival and preventing major damage. You may also find it surprising to learn that rehabilitation begins immediately, usually within 48 hours.
After a stroke, the brain creates new connections in an attempt to correct the damage, so your loved one’s medical team may begin rehabilitation activities, such as range-of-motion exercises, walking, standing, and changing position (if possible), within the first few days. Your loved one’s doctors will also work on getting any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, under control.
Post-Hospitalization Period
Most seniors who have minor strokes leave the hospital within a week, while aging adults who’ve had more severe strokes may require long-term care in the hospital. The severity of any lasting side effects can also determine how long a stroke survivor stays in the hospital. Some return home, while others may need to go to inpatient rehab or skilled nursing facilities.
If your loved one is able to recover at home, a professional in-home caregiver can be an extremely valuable member of your caregiving team. Families looking for top-rated senior care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Two Weeks to Three Months Following a Stroke
The brain reacts best to therapy during the first two weeks of stroke recovery, and after three months, the brain slows down. For most people, at least 50 percent of recovery usually happens during the first 90 days. This doesn’t mean a person can’t continue recovering after the three-month mark, but it’s important to make sure your loved one follows the doctor’s instructions regarding recovery and rehabilitation during this crucial period.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Arlington, VA, elder care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a home caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
Two Years After a Stroke
Some stroke survivors see positive changes up to two years after their strokes occur. By this time, many people who had been unable to speak regain their ability to communicate. Survivors who experienced major strokes that left them paralyzed may also see some changes in their ability to move by the two-year mark.
If your loved one hasn’t recovered completely after two years, there’s still reason to hope. Some stroke survivors continue to see improvements even a decade or more after their strokes occur. The key is to keep up with therapy recommended by your loved one’s medical team.
Factors Impacting Recovery Time
The severity of the stroke, how quickly it was treated, and any lasting side effects all play roles in recovery time. Your loved one’s personal motivation and emotional health as well as the support of family and friends can also factor into how quickly he or she recovers.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of Arlington home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at (703) 988-1800 today.
