Caring for someone after a stroke

A stroke not only affects the patient but can have a dev­astating effect on the family and carers. It is distressing to see a loved one affected by a stroke and relatives will have many questions and concerns. It is important that they voice their worries to the stroke team at an early stage. If matters are getting complicated with, for example, arranging a major package of care after discharge from the hospital, meetings with the family and the entire stroke team can be useful.
The move from hospital to home can appear quite daunting, especially if major adaptations of the home are required. The thought of having complete strangers in the home on a daily basis can also be upsetting, but getting outside help may be the only way for someone to return to living back home.
As stroke disease covers a wide range of problems, it is impossible to give detailed advice in a book such as this. If your relative has been affected by a stroke, you should get information from the professionals caring for them. The major stroke charities also provide telephone and written information (see ‘Useful addresses’).

PROVIDING SUPPORT

People who have just had a stroke need lots of support, not only from the stroke team but also from their family. A stroke comes on quickly but tends to improve slowly, and great patience is needed because, for some, recovery can be very slow. People need time to adjust to their new situation and this can be very stressful for family members.

If you are the main carer, it is important to establish a daily rou­tine. The person recovering from the stroke may be more able at certain times of the day, so it is important to use this time for things that they most want to do. You should also encourage them to see their friends or go out, as this will help them to return to their normal activities.
It is important that carers are not overprotective, however, as there is a fine line between help­ing someone and encouraging their independence. Caring for someone after a stroke can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it is important to help the per­son relearn skills and regain their confidence, rather than do every­thing for them. It is also impor­tant to be patient, as some peo­ple will find it difficult to relearn simple tasks.

YOUR NEW ROLE

After a relative has experienced a stroke, you may find yourself tak­ing over new tasks or responsibilities, such as cooking or managing the family finances. This will change your daily routine and put more pressure on you. Some carers drink and smoke more, as a way of dealing with their new role, but this is not a long-term solution.
Caring for someone after a stroke can be a physical challenge. You need to learn how to lift and move someone without causing them or yourself an injury. You may also need to help them with feed­ing or speech difficulties. You should work with the stroke team, especially the physiotherapist and occupational therapist, to ensure that you are looking after the patient correctly. It is important that you look after yourself too. Common problems among carers include back strain, stress and fatigue.

HELP FOR CARERS

Carers need support from other carers and local groups. Many areas now hold support clubs for carers and relatives, often run by charities, such as the Stroke Association or Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland (see ‘Useful addresses’). These groups can be a source of information, support and practical advice. The stroke unit may also hold meetings for relatives and carers. Support is also available through GPs, district nurses and local community rehabilitation services.
It is important that carers take regular breaks. Ask the stroke team about ‘respite care’, which involves care in your own home, outside your home (at day care centres, for example) or longer breaks in a nursing or residential home.