Supporting a loved one through Rehabilitation can be one of
the most difficult and isolating experiences there is. Serious injuries, and
the subsequent care, can affect families and caregivers as much as the
individual themselves. However, there are steps any caregiver can take to do
make the transition to rehabilitation as smooth as possible.
The first thing to remember to do always is take care of
yourself. If, at any point, you find yourself feeling too isolated or too
stressed, reach out to other people – be they friends and family, an external
support group, or a doctor. Learn to relax, get enough sleep, and find out
which coping strategies work best for you – and this applies to all caregivers.
Brain Injuries
Daily structure and normality are extremely helpful for
those coping with a brain injury. Be sure to stick to a routine every day,
factoring in plenty of rest and limiting the number of visitors and amount of
noise, so as to avoid over-stimulation. Include your loved one in family
activities and conversations, wherever possible, and do whatever you can to be
as natural as possible with them. Remember to be respectful, treating them as
an adult and being sure to consider their likes and dislikes. Point out
milestones and try not to lose patience. You should also bear general safety
matters in mind – make sure there is no clutter around for the sufferer to trip
on, and keep sharp objects out of harm’s way.
Stroke
The road to recovery after a stroke is different for every
patient, as there are a number of complex variables which can lead to someone
having a stroke. The most important thing to remember, then, is that
comparisons with other people’s rehabilitation can only be harmful, not
helpful. Steps forward can come quickly or slowly, so have patience, measure
progress, and stay positive. Depression is extremely common after a stroke, so
monitor your loved one’s mood and behavior, and step in if you notice any
signs of depression. Also, it is important that you are clued-up on medication
and instructions given by the physician, especially those which relate to
preventing future strokes. Encourage a healthy diet and exercise, and make sure
all medication is being taken as prescribed.
Sports Injuries
Sports injuries vary enormously – from acute injuries
incurred during a game to wear-and-tear injuries from repeated use. They can
also affect vastly different parts of the body and take different lengths of
time to heal, but there are some general rules which should help with all of
them. Firstly, be sure that the injured person sees the doctor regularly
throughout their rehabilitation, and that they take their advice and
instructions seriously. Motivate them through difficult aspects such as
physical therapy while being sure not to encourage them to get back into their
sport of choice before they are ready.
Wheelchair
It is important to bear in mind that, life in a wheelchair
can be extremely challenging – particularly for those who are new to it. To
begin with, the crucial thing is simply to be
there for your loved one, and to remind them of this sensitively, without
constantly reminding them of the things they can no longer do. One of the
trickiest things, our patients’ families find, is learning to tread the fine
line between drawing constant attention to the wheelchair and conspicuously not
mentioning it. This may take time and effort, but you will get there. Adapt
your home to make it as wheelchair friendly as possible – this is something
your hospital or medical center can help you with. Finally, be prepared to help
them in any way they need – especially at the beginning. There may be a number
of everyday activities they find difficult to do on their own – from bathing to
dressing – and it is imperative that you lay any reluctance to one side and do
what is necessary. Over time, they may well learn to do these things without
you.
Spinal Injuries
Experiencing a Spinal Cord Injury can profoundly change the
way in which someone interacts with the world. As a caregiver, it is crucial
that you make this transition as painless as possible. Sufferers often
experience high levels of guilt, frustration, and depression – as well as
physical pain – so it is your role to help prevent this, whenever possible, and
never to let your loved one feel like a burden. Be prepared to face these
emotions, and try to communicate openly and often with your loved one about
them. On the whole, it is good to interact with them as you normally would. One
of the best things to do is to work out early on which tasks the patient can
complete independently and which tasks could use your assistance. Keep the
whole family or household involved and be sure to nurture healthy, positive relationships
– providing your loved one with as much contact with the outside world as
possible.
When it comes to rehabilitation for any serious condition, your
role is vital. Your love, care, and support can be the difference between a
patient recovering, and them not recovering. It is a role which is exceedingly
challenging, but which can be hugely rewarding and, whatever the condition of
your loved one, it is always important to remember: you are doing a good job.
