- Love Care Care Team
- 8 min read
- Health & Recovery
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in Malaysia. When a parent comes home after a stroke, families often feel overwhelmed: how do you lift them safely, what should they eat, and how do you help them recover as much independence as possible? This guide covers the essentials.
Before discharge: prepare the home
- Move the bedroom downstairs if your parent cannot manage stairs
- Clear walkways of rugs, wires and clutter to prevent falls
- Install grab bars beside the toilet and in the shower, and use a non-slip mat
- Consider equipment such as a hospital bed, commode chair, wheelchair or walking frame. Many can be rented
- Ask the ward for a written discharge summary, medication list and follow-up appointment dates
The first two weeks are critical
Most falls and readmissions happen soon after discharge. Plan for extra help during this period, even if your parent seems to be coping. A caregiver for a few hours each morning and evening can support bathing, toileting, meals and medication at the times your parent is most at risk.
Build a simple daily routine
Routine helps the brain recover and reduces anxiety. A typical day might include morning personal care and breakfast, medication at fixed times, a short exercise session, rest, lunch, a walk or seated exercises in the afternoon, and a calm evening routine.
Encourage your parent to do as much as they safely can by themselves. Doing everything for them can slow recovery.
Rehabilitation at home
The greatest recovery usually happens in the first three to six months. Home physiotherapy helps with walking, balance, arm function and transfers, while speech therapy can help with talking and swallowing. Between sessions, a trained caregiver can guide your parent through the exercises the therapist sets.
Eating and swallowing safely
Some stroke survivors have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Follow the textures recommended by the hospital, sit your parent fully upright to eat, and watch for coughing or a wet-sounding voice during meals. If your parent is on tube feeding, a registered nurse should handle the tube care.
Warning signs: act FAST
The risk of a second stroke is highest in the first year. Learn the BE FAST signs and call 999 immediately if you notice any of them:
- Balance: sudden loss of balance or dizziness
- Eyes: sudden vision loss or double vision
- Face: one side of the face drooping
- Arm: weakness or numbness in one arm
- Speech: slurred or confused speech
- Time: note the time and get to hospital immediately
Look after the carer too
Family members who care for a stroke survivor are at high risk of burnout. Share duties among siblings, accept help, and plan regular respite, even a few hours a week. Your parent's recovery is a marathon, not a sprint.
How Love Care can help
We can arrange a caregiver before your parent leaves the hospital, add a registered nurse for clinical needs and book home physiotherapy, all with transparent pricing and live support from 7am to 11pm every day.
Love Care Care Team
Written by Love Care care coordinators with input from registered nurses and experienced caregivers. This article is general information, not medical advice. Always consult your doctor about your loved one's condition.
