Abstracted by Sheila Kun RN, BA, BSN, MS.

I am glad that the American Stroke Association stresses the importance of family caregivers. As described by one of my friends who had a stroke 5 months ago, her helplessness is beyond words. When I echoed her feelings by saying: “It seems like you were thrown to the floor and now you have to start everything from scratch.” She responded by saying: “Yes, it was a huge toss to the bottom in life; the fall felt like it was many stories high!” Yes, the injury from the stroke is devastating; it renders you to act like a baby – needing help in many basic daily activities: being diapered, fed, assistance in ambulation and getting out of bed without falling. All these activities require caregiver assistance. The American Stroke Association recommends the following for caregivers:

As a caregiver, you make many sacrifices for your loved one. But it’s crucial to make time for yourself.

Caregivers Need Care, Too!

As a caregiver, you provide the most important long-term support for your stroke survivor’s recovery and rehabilitation.

But who takes care of you? You’re not alone in facing the challenges to balance your caregiving with family, work, personal time and other commitments.

More than 53 million Americans are caregivers — as diverse as those they care for: spouses, partners, adult children, parents, siblings, grandchildren and family friends.

Celebrating Caregivers: Inspiration and Gratitude

It’s not easy being a caregiver. The American Stroke Association panel discussion honors those who devote their lives to providing care to others. Learn about helpful tools and resources as well as tips for self-care.

Stroke Onward

Debra and Steve Zuckerman, her husband of 32 years and “care-partner,” founded the nonprofit Stroke Onward  to help survivors, families and caregivers navigate the emotional journey to rebuild their identities and rewarding lives.

Sheila’s note: After rehabilitation, the next step is planning for home care. One key point that needs to be addressed is: Is it safe for the stroke patient to be left alone without supervision? Does it have to be a 24/7 vigilance or can he/she be left alone during nighttime. What assisted device and durable medical equipment are needed to provide safety in the home? All these issues need to be discussed and planned out prior to home care. One thing is certain, the life of the stroke patient and his/her caregiver is going to be changed. Accepting this reality and adjusting to the new norm is essential for the survivor and the caregivers. 

Your homework for this week from the Care Ministry: Support caregivers.

Love to hear from you: kunlouis@gmail.com