Essential Home Recovery Aids After Surgery or Stroke, No Major Renovation Needed
Preparing your home after hospital discharge
After a stroke or surgery, everyday activities such as getting out of bed, showering and moving around the home may need more planning. You may not need a major renovation, but it is worth checking each area of the home and choosing equipment that suits the user's abilities and the available space.
This room-by-room guide covers options to discuss with the user's doctor or occupational therapist before buying.
1. Bathroom and toilet
Wet floors and limited space can make the bathroom difficult to use. Consider where the user needs support while entering the room, showering and using the toilet.
Shower chair or shower commode
If standing throughout a shower is difficult, a chair with a backrest, armrests and suitable seat height may help the user shower while seated. See the Aluminum alloy folding shower chair.
If the user needs more assistance moving between the bedroom and bathroom, a wheeled shower commode may be another option. Compare the room dimensions, doorway clearance and transfer needs before choosing one. See the Showerbuddy Roll-inBuddy Lite SB6c.
Non-slip footwear or a bathroom mat
Water and soap can make the floor slippery. Choose bathroom footwear that fits securely, or consider a mat that stays firmly in place on the floor. Why not getting yourself a pair of SensFoot non slip slippers or simply a RIDDER bathroom mat that is made in Germany.
Bathroom grab bars
A correctly positioned grab bar can offer a place to hold near a shower, toilet or along a frequently used route. Placement and installation should suit the user's height, movements and the wall or mounting surface. See the Anti-slip Safety Grab Handle Bar.
If drilling into a wall is not practical, other designs may be worth considering, such as the RIDDER L-shaped Suction Grab Bar - Rob or the Stander Security Pole & Curve Grab Bar. Check each product's installation instructions and suitability before the user relies on it for support.
Toilet support and seat height
A support frame may offer handholds when sitting down or standing up from the toilet. See the RIDDER Sam toilet support frame. A raised toilet seat may also help when a lower sitting position is difficult; see the RIDDER Toilet Seat Riser - Sam (10cm). Check dimensions and compatibility with the toilet before ordering.
Browse more bathroom equipment.
2. Bedroom
Think about how the user gets into and out of bed, changes position and moves around the room at night.
Bedside support rail
A compatible rail may offer a handhold, but it is not suitable for every bed or every user. It cannot guarantee that falls will be prevented. Ask a healthcare professional for advice if there is a risk of falling or becoming trapped against a rail.
Electric mattress or electric nursing bed
Adjustable back and leg sections let the user change their resting position. A home-style electric mattress may fit a compatible existing frame, while a nursing bed may offer additional functions such as overall height adjustment for users who need more hands-on care. Check the product dimensions and the user's transfer and care needs before choosing.
3. Living and dining areas
The right seating and everyday equipment can make meals and daily activities more manageable.
- Adapted cutlery: A different grip, weight or angle may help a user with reduced hand movement eat more independently.
- High-back chair with armrests: Suitable armrests can offer support when sitting down or standing up. Check the seat height and stability.
- Turning dining chair: May make it easier to move into or away from a table. Check that its turning and locking functions suit the user.
- Electric recliner: May provide a comfortable seating option, provided the user can get into and out of it safely.
4. Equipment for getting around
Choose a walking aid according to the user's balance, strength and intended activities. A doctor or therapist can advise on the type, fit and technique.
- Walking stick: May provide support when the user needs some assistance while walking.
- Walking frame: May be considered when more support is needed.
- Lightweight wheelchair: May make longer outings or appointments more manageable when walking is difficult or tiring.
Do you need to modify your place?
Not every household needs a major renovation after discharge. Some users may benefit from suitable portable equipment and changes to how a room is arranged. Others may need installed support or more substantial modifications. An occupational therapist can assess the user's needs and the home before you decide what to buy or change.
This article is prepared by HOHOLIFE team. For medical or professional advice, please consult your doctor or therapist.