01 Nov 2011
Buttoning a shirt, tying shoelaces, or holding a spoon can become very difficult for people who have suffered a stroke. Depending on the severity of the stroke, they may have lost the full or partial use of their arms, legs or other parts of the body. In severe cases, the stroke patient may even be totally paralysed.
Getting up, sitting down, walking, eating, dressing and going to the bathroom –these everyday actions which are done automatically an quickly may suddenly take a long time to perform or require the help of others.
When the stroke patient’s condition has stabilised and he returns home, basic modifications to the home can help the patient move about safely and more easily, said Ms Lindy Cheong, Occupational Therapist, Singapore General Hospital (SGH).
Before the patient returns home, Ms Cheong will visit his home to make an assessment and recommend what changes can or need to be made. “I look at the home environment to see what might obstruct the patient’s safe and easy movement and what might trip him. The environment should be as clutter-free as possible,” she said.
Even very small rooms can be modified. “Furniture can be rearranged to make a very small room more spacious and friendly, especially for a patient who is wheelchair-bound. In a flat where the bathroom is very tiny and can’t fit a shower chair or both the caregiver and patient, changes can be made to another room or area. For instance, some patients may shower in the kitchen,” Ms Cheong said.
Some basic modifications to the home include installing grab bars and anti-slip mats in the toilet and bathroom to help prevent the patient from slipping or falling. Patients who are not able to stand are advised to use a shower chair. Ramps can be installed to allow a wheelchair or commode chair to be easily moved. Visibility is important and lighting should be bright. A night light installed in the bedroom is a safety feature in case patients need to get up at night.
There are also many devices and implements available to help patients with everyday activities like putting on their clothes, eating and cooking. Being unable to perform what used to be easy tasks can be a source of frustration for a stroke patient with mobility problems who is seeking to be more independent.
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