A stroke can take away some of a person’s physical abilities, whether it’s from the damage done by the stroke itself or just being out of commission for a while and losing some strength during recovery. Luckily, there are several activities stroke survivors can do at home to help with the rehabilitation process. Some of these activities may even eventually lead to a reversal of physical symptoms. If your aging loved one recently had a stroke, consider encouraging him or her to participate in the following six activities.
1. Painting
Even if your loved one hasn’t ever tried doing art before, painting can be very beneficial after a stroke. Stroke survivors who have difficulty gripping items can practice with paintbrushes, and working on paintings can enhance fine motor skills. The colors and patterns involved can also stimulate brain activity, and as a bonus, your loved one can gift his or her paintings to friends and family, helping him or her feel a sense of belonging, which can be encouraging for someone living with physical limitations.
2. Gardening
There are few things the great outdoors can’t help, and that’s only one reason gardening is an excellent activity for stroke survivors. Depending on your loved one’s limitations, gardening can take place anywhere in the yard or even on a deck or balcony. Planting seeds, pulling weeds, and watering plants can build stamina and coordination. Seeing the end result, whether it’s gorgeous flowers or delicious fruits and vegetables, can also provide a sense of accomplishment. It may even encourage your loved one to eat a healthier diet if he or she is growing vegetables.
Homecare service agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
3. Playing Video Games
Do you have a Nintendo Wii lying around? Video games may be something the younger generations in your family play, but older stroke survivors can benefit from them too. Many Wii games are available that simulate beloved sports such as bowling, tennis, and golf. Your loved one may not be able to get out on the court or the course right now, but he or she can have fun, build stamina, and practice various motions all at the same time. Playing video games with children and grandchildren may even be a fun bonding experience.
4. Playing Board Games
If your loved one is a bit more old-fashioned, bring out the board games. Those with movable parts, such as Battleship, Connect Four, Scrabble, and Jenga, can help with fine motor skills and coordination, and they may also boost cognitive function because each of them involves decision-making, memory, and language skills.
5. Doing Yoga or Tai Chi
Yoga and tai chi can be excellent activities for stroke survivors who need a little help with physical recovery. Your loved one can learn these gentle forms of exercise by watching DVDs, reading books, downloading instructional videos, or even having a teacher come into the home and offer modified versions of the movements. Both activities may help with balance, coordination, and general physical stamina.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one follow a safe, effective exercise plan during recovery. Families looking for top-rated Waterloo senior care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
6. Dancing
Turn on your loved one’s favorite music and encourage him or her to get moving. Your loved one doesn’t have to know any fancy steps. Just have fun with it—the movement can help with strength and stamina, and the fun your loved one has may motivate him or her to stay active.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Waterloo live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (519) 954-2111 today.