Recovering from a stroke can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming, and the only thing a stroke survivor wants to do is return home to his or her everyday life. However, since more than two-thirds of stroke survivors have some form of disability (per the National Stroke Association), modifications to the home may be necessary to make life easier and safer for a client who is recovering from a stroke.
There are some simple steps that we can take to make the home safer and more accessible for a stroke survivor. Below is a checklist of items to use when assessing the home that can be used to make suggestions to the client:
Fall Prevention:
As many as 40% of stroke survivors experience serious falls within the year following their strokes. Check the following to prevent trips and falls in the home:
- Hallways and pathways to the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen should all be clear so the person can move to and from these high traffic areas easily
- Stair glides or platform lifts are recommended to help the client move safely up and down stairs
- Loose rugs and throw rugs should be removed, or firmly secured to the floor
- Grab bars should be installed in the shower or bathtub and beside the toilet
- A tub bench or shower chair makes bathing easier and safer
- Non-slip mats should be placed both inside and outside of the tub
Laundry Safety:
Laundry tasks require a great deal of lifting, reaching, ducking and pulling that can be challenging for those who have suffered a stroke. These changes can help:
- Washer and dryer should be moved to an easily accessible location in the person’s home
- Stackable, front-loading washing machines and dryers may be easier to utilize
- Detergents and other laundry supplies should be stored in an easy-to-reach spot
- An ironing board that folds down from the wall is a safer option than a free-standing one
Bedroom Safety:
The stroke survivor’s bedroom should be a place that he or she feels safe, relaxed and comfortable in. Consider these tips:
- A light switch near the bed can help prevent falls from stumbling in the dark
- Clothing and personal items should be reorganized to make them easier to access; for example, placing the most commonly used items in drawers that are easiest to reach
- A commode chair near the bed makes bathroom needs easier to manage at nighttime
Clients who have survived a stroke can be offered a free in-home assessment to improve the safety of their home as they recover, and to reduce the risk of re-hospitalization. Check with your supervisor if you believe this would be beneficial for your client.
