When someone has a stroke, all he or she wants to do is get home and return to normal life. Modifications may be required since more than 2/3 of survivors will have some type of disability, says the National Stroke Association.

The good news is that there are several ways to make the home safer and more accessible for a person who has experienced a stroke. Below are a few stroke care at home tips from Regency Home Care of Atlanta.

Fall Prevention:

About 40% of stroke survivors suffer serious falls within a year after their strokes, so try these simple fixes to create a safer home:

• Clear paths to the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen can help the person move about safely
• Consider stair glides or platform lifts if stairs are in the home
• Remove loose carpets or rugs that can cause tripping or slipping
• Install grab bars in the shower or tub
• Use a tub bench or shower chair
• Install non-slip floor strips inside and outside the tub

Simplify the Laundry:

While we may not realize it, doing the laundry requires lots of reaching, lifting, and pulling that may be difficult for a stroke survivor. The following modifications can help:

• Move washers and dryers to an easily accessible location in the home
• Consider stackable, front-loading machines that may be easier to reach
• Put detergents and other laundry supplies in an easy to reach location
• Use an ironing board that folds down from the wall

Safer Bedrooms:

The bedroom should be a place of rest, sanctuary, and safety. Keep it that way for stroke survivors with these tips:

• Install a light switch near the bed
• Reorganize clothes and personal items to make them easier to access
• Keep a commode chair near the bed

Regency Home Care of Atlanta can help make your loved one’s home a safer place to be through a home safety assessment and some simple modifications. Learn more about Atlanta’s top home care company by contacting us to schedule your free in-home assessment today.