Hobbies
Continuing to enjoy hobbies is an important part of living a full and satisfying life. Some stroke survivors have difficulty enjoying some of their previous hobbies because of physical, communication or visual changes. While returning to some hobbies may seem impossible, it can be worth a try! Adaptive equipment may be available to help overcome some of the difficulties caused by the stroke. A therapeutic recreation counselor can assist in finding the right equipment to meet the needs of the stroke survivor. Community adult education classes are also a wonderful way to try new hobbies.
Exercise
Exercise is important to keep the body healthy and fit. Many doctors recommend 20-30 minutes of exercise a day. Stroke survivors may need to find different forms of exercise than they did before their strokes. Activities such as walking, swimming or pushing a wheelchair are great ways to keep the cardiovascular system healthy. Many shopping malls have walking programs. These are great options for stroke survivors, since they offer opportunities to exercise in a climate-controlled environment with smooth, even floors. Community recreation centers may also offer exercise programs tailored for people with disabilities, such as water aerobics or seated exercise. Be sure to discuss a new exercise program with a doctor before starting. If the stroke survivor is in physical therapy, the physical therapist should be consulted, too.
Adaptive Equipment
Many types of equipment are available to help stroke survivors adapt to their physical challenges. These include many household items, such as such as tub seats, shower bars, special utensils, and adapted telephones. Adaptive equipment can also be installed in cars. For example, there are adaptations that will allow a stroke survivor to drive with the left foot. Adaptive equipment allows stroke survivors to improve their independence with communicating, getting around, participating in hobbies, taking care of themselves, managing home responsibilities, and working. Many adaptations are also available for computers. The rehabilitation team or therapists will be able to assist in recommending adaptive equipment to maximize the stroke survivor’s safety and independence.
Travel
Many stroke survivors will not be able to drive immediately after their strokes, and may have to rely on public transportation or taxis. Most cities offer reduced fares and special transportation programs for people with disabilities. Many stroke survivors continue to vacation, and many airlines offer special facilities and services for travelers with disabilities. Before traveling, stroke survivors should check with their doctors to be sure that they are safe to travel, especially if traveling involves a long flight.
Many hotels now offer accessible rooms. Be sure to ask when the reservation is made. Before leaving town, stroke survivors should find out about the healthcare available in the area to where they are travelling. They should also be sure that they have extra medication with them should they need to stay a couple of extra days or their luggage gets lost.
Sex
Many people are worried about having sex after a stroke and wonder if it is safe. Sex may be different after a stroke, but there is no evidence that sex can bring on another stroke. While sex is safe, stroke can affect one's sex life in many ways. Depression and medication can lower sex drive. Physical changes can make it difficult to move the body into a comfortable position. It is important that both partners talk to each other openly about how they feel and what they want. If sex or communication about sex is difficult, professional counseling may help.
