Caregivers in Mount Laurel, NJ – Learn the Facts about Atrial Fibrillation and the Importance of After-Care
You may hear the term “afib” quite a bit when doctors or medical professionals are talking about heart-related problems. “Afib” is short for atrial fibrillation – a type of irregular beating of the heart that increases the person’s chance of a stroke. This irregular beating, called an arrhythmia, means the heart could beat too fast or slow, or fail to follow a regular rhythm.
How to Take Care of a senior after a Stroke
As a caregiver, looking after someone who is recovering from a stroke because of an “afib” irregularity plays a decisive role in the recovery. The caretaker and the type of care they provide can often be the difference between a successful recovery and a difficult one. You should consider hiring a home care provider to help your senior parent with bouncing back to their health and regular life.
Below, you can follow some important steps to help you better prepare for a successful recovery.
Do your homework – While your family member is recovering, use this opportunity to learn about afib and ways you can improve their recovery. At the hospital, you’ll have exposure to a variety of health care physicians who can answer any number of questions. Use these resources while they are close by and get any questions you need answered. It will help you stay organized and on top of any specific duties.
Learn to take a pulse – Learning to take a pulse is the simplest and one of the most effective ways to check someone’s heart rate. Practice while you are in the hospital with your elderly loved one.
Diet is key – Any extra weight, or consuming unhealthy foods can result in increased cholesterol and blood pressure; all of which can led to another heart attack or stroke. Be sure to look up heart-healthy foods, and as a rule try to serve natural, low fat and highly nutritous foods to your parent.
Regular medicine – For sufferers of afib, taking a routine medication like blood thinners helps reduce their chance of stroke. But even a small lapse in medication can put someone at risk – make sure important medicines are taken daily. A home care provider can remind your senior loved one to take their medications on schedule.
Encouraging Rehabilitation
There are many ways seniors, after a stroke, can regain the use of their arms and legs. Many choose to do a rehab program, which will help improve physical movement and strengthen muscles. Talk to your mother or father and ask them what they’d be comfortable with doing. There are many options out there, and your hired caregiver will be able to help make the right decision for you, too. Your city probably has local support groups for stroke survivors to provide you with more resources and information.
For all of your caregiver needs in Mount Laurel, NJ and the surrounding areas call and talk to us at Home to Stay Healthcare Solutions (856) 321-1500.
