Coming home after a stroke can seem overwhelming. Medically, you may be stable, but how will you accomplish your daily activities, do prescribed therapies and take your medications? In-home stroke rehabilitation services from Advantage Home Health Services can help you do those things and more. In this blog, we will discuss how you can find quality in-home services to help you rehab at home after a stroke.
What Does In-Home Stroke Rehabilitation Involve?
In-home rehabilitation after suffering a stroke involves learning and relearning skills you need to live well and as independently as possible. Skills which may have changed due to your stroke include walking, dressing, bathing and even speaking. In-home stroke rehabilitation services provide the necessary support to help you relearn these skills in the comfort of your own home.
The Benefits of In-Home Stroke Rehabilitation
One major benefit of in-home stroke rehabilitation is convenience. You don’t have to leave your home or go to an outside facility for therapy sessions. This can be especially helpful if transportation is difficult for you. Additionally, being in your own familiar environment can aid in your recovery by reducing stress levels.
Another advantage is personalized care. With in-home services, therapists focus solely on your needs within your own familiar surroundings. They can tailor their approach to fit your specific goals and abilities. This individualized attention aids recovery or adaptation of skills, as well as your emotional well-being.
Also, in-home stroke rehabilitation can involve your family members, friends and others important to your everyday life. They will learn to:
- Keep your home safe
- Assist you in bathing, dressing and eating as needed
- Administer or monitor medications
- Support you emotionally as you progress in your recovery
How to Find Quality In-Home Stroke Rehabilitation Services
Your discharge planner, primary care provider and others involved in your post-stroke care can help you find the assistance you need to transition to home successfully and safely. Depending on your specific medical needs and your desired therapeutic outcomes, you should look for services which can include:
- Health monitoring with a registered nurse.
- In-home physical, occupational and speech therapies to improve mobility, strength, endurance and communication.
- Help with adapting the home environment for safety and for accommodations, such as wheelchair ramps and bathroom grab bars.
To find all these services in one place can seem nearly impossible. However, there are Medicare-certified home care providers, such as Advantage Home Health Services, which can deliver the needed services in a patient-centered, skilled and compassionate way. Here are the characteristics of a quality home healthcare agency.
Reputation and Qualifications
Choose a highly rated home healthcare provider. Ask your discharge planner for recommendations and also trusted friends or family members who have used home healthcare services.
Make sure the caregivers, therapists and nurses are licensed and insured. Thorough professional vetting should be a part of any home healthcare agency.
Specifically ask if the agency you are considering does thorough criminal background checks on every potential employee. Also, ask if all caregivers are trained in basic first aid and CPR.
Look for a home health provider with a long-track record of service to the community. For instance, Advantage Home Health Services has served the 52 counties of Pennsylvania with a full spectrum of home healthcare for more than 20 years.
Affordability
To reduce financial worries after a catastrophic injury, surgery or ongoing medical condition, understand how much of your in-home care will be covered by Medicare or other health insurance. The right in-home stroke care can be expensive, so know your costs up front. Choose a home healthcare provider who will work with you to navigate financial responsibilities.
Range of Services
In-home stroke rehabilitation is multi-faceted. Look for services to include some or all of the following depending on need:
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Skilled nursing
- Personal/hygiene care
Patient Needs
In-home stroke rehabilitation services depend on the needed level of care. Consider how much support you can depend on from friends and loved ones. Does the agency communicate clearly and respectfully when you ask questions about services and costs? If a therapist or nurse is absent due to illness or other circumstance, who fills in, and do they have the same skill set?
Concerns such as these should be addressed as you discuss discharge at the hospital or rehabilitation facility. Get clear answers before starting home services for stroke rehabilitation.
In-Home Stroke Rehabilitation in Pennsylvania
Your decision about in-home stroke rehabilitation services is so important. The right help will guide you to your best function and overall well-being.
To learn more about Advantage Home Health Services, call us at (888) 384-0395. Also, you can fill out a request for information form here. We look forward to assisting you in your wellness journey.
