Supporting a Loved One through Rehabilitation

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.