Important Questions To Ask When Planning For Your Parent's Rehabilitation Services After A Stroke
If one of your parents has recently experienced a stroke, planning for their rehabilitation through intensive therapies can be the best way to encourage their recovery. However, it is important to point out that physical therapy for a senior citizen will typically differ from that of a younger person, as their flexibility and muscle strength isn't what it used to be.
Studies have proven that three of the most significant factors that impact recovery from a stroke are:
- The amount of therapy they receive
- The quality of their rehabilitative services
- How soon the care begins after the stroke
Should You Use Inpatient Care?
It is important to note that even a minor stroke can result in mental or physical disabilities. Fortunately, your parent might be eligible to spend about 100 days in a rehabilitation or nursing center.
It is fairly common for Medicare and insurance companies to split the cost of that care. It should also be remembered that there are several different types of therapies available in many facilities.
Those therapies include:
- Cognitive ( mental)
- Speech and language (talking, communication, etc.)
- Therapeutic recreation (leisure activities, like golf or chess)
- Occupational (Regaining or developing new employment skills)
- Physical
What About Outpatient Care?
If your parent is not interested or not eligible for the long-term care facility for their recovery, outpatient care is still an option. The physical therapist will assess their condition and form a care plan. Your mom or dad will then be able to receive the therapies they need to restore as much of their previous strength and abilities as possible.
Although the care will typically be overseen by the appropriate therapist, their daily or weekly treatments will typically be provided by physical therapy aides. Continuing to participate in the therapy practices at home is often recommended.
What Can You Do To Help?
You may also find that you need to drive them to their appointments, as after a stroke it may not be safe for them to do so. Even after they return home, many of their activities of daily living are more difficult or less safe for mom or dad to perform alone. As a result, adaptive aids are often needed when they come home from the hospital or rehabilitation center.
Common adaptive devices include:
- Shower chairs
- Stair lifts
- Railings for hallways, entry ways and stairs.
In conclusion, each person's stroke can vary immensely for senior citizens. Therefore, it is your responsibility that they have the most appropriate type of rehabilitation service. For more information check out companies such as Hillcrest Nursing Center.
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