If you or a loved one has ever suffered from a stroke, you will know how completely frightening they can be. Once it has happened, the main thing is getting yourself feeling healthy again. As time goes on, you’ll want to improve your strength and coordination so that you can regain some fundamental skills that you might have lost after the stroke and take back your independence.
Whilst recovering in hospital, you’ll benefit from specialist equipment that helps put you on the road to recovery. However, it’s a long process that must be continued once you get home. Here are some ways that you can still regain strength and keep your independence when home.
Use a Gym Ball
A gym ball is an easy and inexpensive item to purchase and can be used in any room in your house – as long as you have some space. Regularly using the ball can help improve your balance and work on your core stability. You don’t need to be able to do much with the ball, just simply sitting on it whilst watching TV is a brilliant start. If you start to feel more comfortable with the ball, we suggest trying to lift each foot off the ground alternatively – working on your abdominal muscles.
Purchase a Pedal Exerciser
A pedal exercise is a good purchase as it can help you strengthen both the upper and lower body. For the upper body, you can place it on a surface and turn the pedals with your hands. For the lower body, place on the floor and use like a bike – strengthen the muscles in your legs.
Install a Stairlift
For most people who want to regain independence, their top priority is often being able to access and use the bathroom and bedroom on their own. If these are located on the top floor of a house, it can often be a huge problem. If this applies to you, it’s definitely worth investing in a stairlift. ALS Stairlifts are specialists in supplying and installing high quality new and reconditioned stairlifts. We can help you enjoy all areas of your own home.
Make Bathroom Improvements
You’ll want to be using your bathroom unassisted when you arrive home, but sometimes this isn’t possible until improvements have been made. If you can’t afford to have it completely renovated, there are other cost effective alternatives. You might find it difficult to shower, so it’s common for people to install a stool and grab bar in the shower or install a transferring chair to go over the bath.
If you or a loved one has recently suffered from a stroke and want to regain your independence, please don’t hesitate to contact us here at ALS Stairlifts. Give us a call on 0800 046 3438 and a member of our team will be happy to help.