The recovery process after surviving a stroke can vary from person to person. We’re here to help you prepare for your loved one’s hospital discharge. We highlight key considerations on caring for a stroke survivor at home.
How do I care for my loved one recovering from a stroke?
Speak to your loved one’s hospital team and get familiar with their condition.
You should ask them about:
- The type of stroke your loved one recovering from
- Medications and its side effects, especially if they have multiple conditions; do take note especially if your loved one is on blood thinners
- Appropriate rehabilitation plans
- Risk factors or
- Suggestions for lifestyle changes
- The recommended dietary advice or speaking to a dietician on a low fat/low sodium/low sugar diet
- Preventing another stroke
- Speak with a speech therapist for advice on safe swallowing
How can I support my loved one in their daily activities during their recovery?
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Feeding
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Dressing
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Bathing
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Moving
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How can I make the home a safe place for recovery?
- Before your loved one moves back home, speak to the therapist or hospital team on going home with a healthcare or mobility equipment, such as a hospital bed, wheelchair or commode.
- Consider making home modifications, such as installation of grab bars, ramps, use of anti-slip mats and ensuring the home environment is well-lit.
- Make these simple adjustments e.g. rearrange furniture, remove clutter and rugs on floor etc.
What can I do to ensure my loved one’s safety outside home?
- When commuting, plan safer routes with even surfaces, avoid kerbs, potholes, or areas with heavy traffic.
- Check with the medical/treatment team if a referral for a community/home rehabilitation service is required. If yes, ensure the referral is made before your loved one is discharged.
- Learn the appropriate caregiving training from your loved one’s hospital team, such as proper positioning/transfer techniques. You can also find out more about the Caregiver Training Grant here.
- Encourage your loved one to practise the exercises as recommended by the therapist.
- Keep a regular log of your loved one’s blood pressure, blood sugar readings and other signs , especially when your loved one is unwell. Bring the log along to medical appointments for review.
‘BE FAST’ – recognise these signs and symptoms of a stroke:
- Balance – Loss of balance or coordination?
- Eyes – Sudden blurring, double or total loss of vision, either in one or both eyes
- Face droop – Facial weakness or an uneven smile?
- Arm weakness – Sudden or new weakness/numbness?
- Speech difficulty – Sudden or new episode of unclear speech
- Time to call 995 – Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur
Here are some caregiver support groups you may consider exploring, where people like yourself share experiences/feelings, and seek emotional support from fellow caregivers:
Stroke Support Station
Life After Stroke in Singapore
Singapore National Stroke Association
Stroke Support Group
New to caregiving? We have a list of caregiver training courses and schemes you can explore here.
Are there other forms of support for caregivers like me?
Yes, there are. At AIC, you can find support for the following:
You can also reach out to us for support:
AIC Hotline: 1800 650 6060
(Mon-Fri: 830am to 830pm ; Sat: 830am to 4pm)
You can also visit an AIC Link branch near you.
For more information on general hospital discharge or for other specialised treatments, you may tap on one of the following:
Learn More
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