Most seniors can make full recoveries after having strokes by focusing on their physical and mental health. Family caregivers should encourage their senior loved ones to engage in certain activities that can restore their abilities and prevent future strokes. Here’s a quick look at some safe activities for stroke survivors.
1. Stretching with Foam Rollers
Foam rolling can provide stroke survivors with several benefits, such as increased flexibility and better circulation. The goal of this exercise is to stimulate torn muscle fibers and reduce muscle soreness.
2. Yoga
This exercise is one of the safest and most effective ways for stroke survivors to increase their strength without exerting themselves too much. Many yoga classes are designed specifically for seniors with limited mobility and dexterity. A study conducted at Harvard Medical School revealed 30 minutes of yoga per day can reduce chronic pain by increasing the body’s supply of serotonin and dopamine.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one follow a safe, effective stroke recovery plan. Families looking for top-rated senior home care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
3. Computer Games
Strokes not only have an impact on physical health, but they can also result in long-term brain damage. Playing computer games can strengthen cognitive abilities and create new neural pathways. Seniors who don’t own computers can get the same benefits from playing mobile games on their smartphones or tablets.
4. Knitting
Knitting for a few hours a week is an easy way to rebuild hand strength without putting too much stress on the wrists. Most cities host free or affordable knitting classes where they teach basic techniques and patterns. Stroke survivors who are having difficulty knitting can build hand strength with crocheting.
5. Mirror Therapy
This type of therapy is an excellent option for stroke survivors with limited dexterity in a single arm. During a therapy session, the senior will look into a mirror at a certain angle so it seems as if the affected arm is working just like the unaffected arm. Over time, the brain creates new neurons and begins to heal itself.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Miami seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
6. Mindfulness Meditation
A 2001 study carried out at the University of Michigan found that mindfulness meditation can reduce long-term mental fatigue after a stroke. The goal of mindfulness meditation is to overcome natural insecurities by focusing on breathing. Seniors who are having a difficult time meditating can try playing music or using white noise machines.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Miami families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. For compassionate, reliable in-home care, trust the experienced professionals from Assisting Hands Home Care. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
