Since your dad’s stroke, he struggles to walk around. His speech was affected. He’s withdrawing from everyone, but you know it’s crucial for him to stay social. How can you help him socialize after a stroke?

Find His Interests

Your dad is more likely to be social if the activity appeals to him. If your dad loves painting, a painting group is an excellent social activity for him. If he loves cooking, sign him up for some cooking classes that allow him to sit down while he prepares food.

Visit Often

Arrange to have people stopping by each day. It should be close family members who stop by and socialize. At the same time, those visiting should be doing helpful chores around the house.

Cooking a meal, doing the laundry, or running the vacuum are just a few of the things family caregivers can do. Between chores, make sure your dad’s social needs are addressed.

Follow His Cues

Some days may be easier for your dad to manage. If he’s having a bad day, don’t push socialization. If he’s in a good mood, invite people over.

Pay attention to his energy levels. He’s had family over for the past hour. He’s yawning and keeps closing his eyes. It’s time to end the social event and let your dad rest. Don’t overwhelm him with too much activity.

Hold Small Gatherings

A large gathering will overwhelm your dad. Don’t invite the entire family. Invite a few of his favorite family members or friends. If you know he and his sister never got along, leave her out and have his favorite niece visit him instead.

Keep these gatherings to a few people. If he seems to do well, try adding one or two people the next time. Find his comfort zone and stick to that.

Join a Support Group

Take your dad to a support group for stroke survivors. If he’s surrounded by people who’ve experienced what he’s going through, it’s easier for him to talk about how he feels. The bonds he’ll form in his support group help him find lasting friendships.

Hire In-Home Care Services for Companionship

Being your dad’s helper after a stroke is a caring act, but make sure you’re taking care of yourself. You have to take care of your emotional and physical health, too. When you sign up for respite care, an in-home care aide can spend time socializing with your dad while you’re running errands or taking a day off. Talk to an in-home care specialist to learn more.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring In-Home Care in Spartanburg, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116. Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding areas.

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Edward Harrison

Founder at Heart of the Carolinas

Edward Harrison founded the Heart of the Carolinas Homecare in 2007 when he saw there was a need for caregivers that provide non-medical home care services, at a price that most people could afford. It was standard in the industry to require hourly minimums and it was common to be assigned a caregiver, not matched with one based on your individual personal needs. Edward understood that to make a successful relationship between caregiver and client, skills were not enough, personality and compatibility plays as much a role as do skills.

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