Common Concerns and Questions from Caregivers

As a caregiver advocate, I have spent time with primary and supporting caregivers at the hospital during this phase. The stroke survivor has stabilized, and the plan is to receive rehabilitation services.

I have received some questions and concerns. Again, most depend on the health and progress of the stroke survivor.

We are thrilled our loved one is better, but will they ever be the person they were pre stroke?

This is one question I asked at the beginning. Although brains look alike, stroke recovery and response are unique to each person. Your best bet for an answer is to ask the health team, especially the neurologist. It varies depending on where the stroke occurred, the patient’s response to treatment, and their recovery progress.

My husband has changed, in my experience. In some ways, he is better; he appreciates life more and doesn’t seem to stress over daily issues. What has changed is more his personality. He has poorer recall and displays more apathy. The changes are becoming easier to handle as time goes on.

I am not a medical professional; how will I be able to provide care and keep them safe?

Most family caregivers are not medical professionals. The key is to take advantage of as much training as possible. During inpatient rehab, ask the therapist to let you do as much as you would do at home. Training and practice make all the difference.

What is my role during inpatient rehabilitation?

The role of the caregiver is to prepare the home for discharge, attend trainings, practice with the therapist, and to prepare themselves for this life change. Evening finds the stroke survivor depleted from a full day of therapy and not wanting company. Home is where you should focus on yourself; they’re in a safe place. 

My children and family flew in when he had the stroke, is it ok for family members to return home?

It all comes down to how the patient recovers, so you should discuss this with the neurologist. The return home of loved ones usually coincides with the recovery and retraining of the stroke survivor. Primary caregivers must maintain open communication, honestly share progress and needs, and plan for ongoing support and respite.

Each week, I visit with new caregivers and their families. The number of questions and concerns they have been overwhelming but taken one question or concern at a time helps. For more support, order “Stroke and the Spouse” on Amazon.