Support

Having the support of family members and friends is essential during the stroke recovery process. Stroke survivors may require help caring for themselves - bathing, dressing, meals, etc. They may need help taking care of their home - paying bills, laundry, etc. They may need assistance getting to and from therapy and medical appointments. In addition to these daily needs, the stroke survivor may also be worried about their future, finances, work and their family. Family members who are helping stroke survivors have also experienced a major life change. They will need the support of family and friends, also.

Stroke Survivor Support

The support of family and friends can make all the difference in the stroke recovery process. Having a stroke can be an overwhelming experience to: life can completely change in an instant. Family and friends can help stroke survivors by keeping a positive and realistic outlook on stroke recovery. To determine how long the recovery process will take is impossible. It is important to let the stroke survivor recover at his or her own pace. Family and friends can help in this process by assisting with therapy programs such as home exercises, providing transportation to and from appointments, and helping to complete household chores. They can also help by providing a shoulder to cry on, telling a good joke, playing a game, or providing a distraction from the daily life of stroke recovery.

Caregiver Support

It is normal for the caregiver of a stroke survivor to be worried, frustrated, sad, tired or overwhelmed. The caregivers' lives change just as dramatically as the lives of stroke survivors. Caregivers will need time to do activities which they enjoy and time to rest. This is often difficult to do, considering the needs of the stroke survivor. Caregivers may want to consider hiring extra help at home, such as a cleaning or home care services, or recruiting help from family and friends. The work of a caregiver is tiresome and often unacknowledged. If caregivers find that the demands are too great, they may benefit from professional counseling. Many community stroke support groups also have meetings just for caregivers. It is important that caregivers take time to meet their own needs - so that they are able to continue to care for their stroke survivor too.

Stroke Support Groups

A stroke support group is a community organization for stroke survivors and their family members, friends and others. Support groups help people learn more about stroke, share their experiences with stroke, and become inspired to move forward after their stroke.

A stroke can be very isolating. By meeting regularly, members help one another face and overcome common challenges by sharing experiences and encouraging one another. A stroke support group can be a place for stroke survivors and caregivers to make friends, socialize, gain realistic feedback, help others and find meaning in life.