Stroke Treatment Example
Maggie had a stroke 2 months ago that has left her with weakness on her right side and has returned home after her rehabilitation in the hospital. She is nervous about falling in the shower and has been sponge bathing since she’s been home. Her fear of falling has prevented her from performing her basic self-care tasks the way she used to and doing what she loved most which is cooking for her family. Her routine has changed to her watching tv most of the day.
Initial Evaluation
A personalized interview and evaluation of her physical, cognitive, and emotional level is completed. Maggie is definitely safe to get in the shower!
To reach this goal, Jacki evaluates her bathroom and recommends that she will need a tub transfer bench, grab bars, and a hand-held shower head to bathe safely.
Therapeutic Strategies
Treatment Session #1
When the adaptive equipment is in place, Jacki and Maggie perform a “dry run” shower to ease Maggie back into the process and create a safe situation that she will be successful doing. Maggie realizes that she can do it which builds her confidence and lessens her fear of falling.
Therapeutic Strategies
Treatment Session #2
The next treatment session Maggie completes a full shower with Jacki present to give safety tips and guide her through the process.
Jacki teaches her caregiver how much Maggie can do on her own and how to safely set up her bathing routine. Maggie begins showering daily and feels like a new woman!
Therapeutic Strategies
Treatment Session #3
Now, Maggie has new energy to try other activities in the home like getting back to cooking! Together, Maggie and Jacki begin discussing her love for cooking, her favorite meals to make, and tools she will need for one-handed meal preparation!
Therapeutic Strategies
Maggie feels significantly happier day to day knowing that she is filling the role she loves in her family. She is getting more physical activity now that she is not spending as much time watching tv and has more energy. The door begins to open for more opportunities to rebuild the fulfilling life that she deserves.