Why is routine so important for Stroke Survivors?
We all have our daily routines. Some are harder than others (Like exercise) but they help us to navigate our day. When a loved one has a stroke, normal routines from pre-stroke are a thing of the past. There is life and hope post stroke, and the new routines will become second nature.
Why is it important for everyone to have routine in life, especially stroke survivors?
Routine:
Helps to reduce daily decisions. The SS knows what tasks are needed each day and the need to decide and struggle to think too much on the task is eliminated. It becomes habit.
Helps to provide structure. A typical SS and caregiver day can vary from day to day. With a structure to your day, both are better able to handle changes. They are able to plan the day and allow for spontaneity. It is common post stroke to feel that you have lost control of your life. The act of doing routine tasks provides a sense of control. No task is too small.
Helps to decrease stress. Having a routine plan for the day helps the SS better navigate and feel a sense of control for their day. When the routines become second nature, self-confidence begins to build. When you feel you have conquered a routine task, you are more willing to take on additional and out of their comfort zone activities.
How does having a routine help the caregiver?
After my husbands stroke, my life was turned upside down. All of my normal routines came to a halt, and I needed to learn to navigate a new normal for myself and my husband. The amount of stress experienced when not knowing what to expect was immense. What I learned is that once he was home, we needed to add back simple routines in our life. When my husband began to feel that our routines were second nature, my stress decreased. Why? He had a plan for the day, and I was not providing and reminding him of needed care.
The other benefit was that when I needed someone to step in, it was very easy to share what he needed and his routine. This gave my husband self-confidence but also kept him safe. The friends that stepped in, appreciated the routine.
What routines are important to incorporate?
Medications taken at the same time
Hydration is important. Setting a timer every 2 hours as a reminder to drink water.
Activity time - This could be time for rehab. exercises, going for a walk, word puzzles or games. Anything that requires movement and brain stimualtion
Rest - a scheduled afternoon nap can do wonders for both. A nap provides an opportunity to rest your mind and your body.
Socialization - This includes leaving the house each day, calling a friend, support group or conversations without distractions.
Personal Care - Bathing can be a challenge. Schedule which day to accomplish this task. A daily bath is not needed unless an accident occurs.
Schedule routines - not everything is a daily routine. Decide what works for you and what you feel needs to be daily. I know that stopping doing everything daily helped with my energy level and stress.
Lastly, make it a routine to check out this website and the Facebook site: stroke caregiver connection. You will be glad that you did.
Stroke Caregiver Connection…Because you care!