Caring for someone who has a stroke

What should a caregiver do?
No one job description explains what caregivers do. Each person's responsibilities vary according to the unique needs of the stroke survivor, and each person must determine what type and amount of care he or she is able to provide. This may require several adjustments, role changes and learning new skills. Common responsibilities of caregiving include...

Physical help with day-to-day activities
Managing financial, legal and business affairs
Monitoring behavior to ensure safety and well-being
Coordinating medical and rehabilitative care
Providing emotional support for the stroke survivor and his or her family members

Is there help for caregivers?
Don't make the mistake of not asking for help when you need it. Ask relatives, friends, clergy or social workers for suggestions about people who might be able to help you. There are lots of places to seek help, including...

Adult day care
Adult foster homes
Meal programs such as Meals on Wheels
Home healthcare services
Homemaker assistance
Public health nursing services
Respite care
Transportation services

You can get information on the availability and cost of these services from your doctor or other healthcare professional, your state and community service department and stroke support groups such as the American Stroke Association's Stroke Family Support Network. Just dial 1-888-7-STROKE to reach someone who really understands what you're going through. We also have a list of other stroke information pages on the Internet.

Stay informed and stay in touch
The more you learn about stroke and its aftermath, the better equipped you'll be as a caregiver. The American Stroke Association has many materials that can help you understand what the stroke survivor is feeling and experiencing. Call the Stroke Family Support Network at 1-888-4-STROKE to get information sent to you. Or visit the pages American Stroke Association for help in understanding stroke and its affects.

Need a little encouragement? Call the Stroke Family Support Network at 1-888-4-STROKE to talk to someone who understands and can help you find the right balance in your life as a caregiver.