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The family plays an important role in the physical rehabilitation of a patient. One of the vital factors that contribute to the patient’s recovery is the involvement and support of the family members and significant others.
Why is family support vital to rehabilitation?
The acceptance and support from the family and significant others can help a patient deal with any issues related to self-esteem and confidence brought by any injury or disability. Reinforcement and a positive attitude from significant others often help in the individual works of rehabilitation and can promote a faster recovery process.
What is your role as a family member in the rehabilitation process?
Organize information
Health care services and procedures can oftentimes be complex. The possibility of losing information in translation or forgetting vital details is undeniable. One helpful way to avoid this is to create a caregiver notebook to consolidate information and keep a record of all transactions and necessary information related to the patient’s condition and recovery process.
Things that you should write in the caregiver notebook
Contact information: A list of all those who are involved, such as doctors, therapists, specialists, family members, etc.
Schedule: A list of activities, do’s and don’ts, food preferences, medications, and other activities that the patient does on a day-to-day basis. This can be used by others in case the primary caregiver is unavailable.
Therapy log: Keep track of all medical-related activities, procedures, and therapy routines. This can guide the clinicians in understanding the course of rehabilitation and provide insights into what can be done in the future.
Educate yourself
Knowledge about the patient’s condition is a great help in understanding your role as a caregiver or family member. This can promote a better relationship between you and the patient, eliminating preconceived notions and judgment towards the patient. Furthermore, having a clear knowledge and understanding of the patient’s condition can help you become a better advocate as you will have a more informed decision-making ability.
Start by researching the cause, prognosis, and recovery process of the patient’s condition. After this, familiarize yourself with the treatment options and the products and services that can enhance the quality of the patient’s recovery process.
Modify the environment
Follow up with the care team with the steps that you can take so the patient can maximize the living space at home without encountering problems or being at risk for hazards. This can include modifying the patient’s room to have easy access to the toilet, clothing, food, and therapy equipment. You can also install safety devices such as handrails, non-slip mats, calling devices, etc. Do not forget about providing a bed commode, walker, or wheelchair to help with mobility.
Provide emotional support
Patients who are undergoing rehabilitation are prone to sudden mood changes and depression. The change in the patient’s ability can also lower their self-esteem and can also make them feel isolated, different, and afraid. Having a significant person who provides emotional support and boosts their confidence is a big help for these patients. Help them voice out their emotions and provide an accepting environment free from judgment.
Ask for help
Caring for a patient with multiple health needs can be overwhelming and exhausting physically and emotionally. Do not forget to take care of yourself and ask for help whenever necessary. Getting help from support groups can also ease the burden. Remember that in order to provide a positive care experience, the caregiver must also be in a positive state.
Need help in the rehabilitation process?
Are you preparing for future physical rehabilitation needs? Maplewood Sauk Prairie Wellness and Rehabilitation Center is a health center that provides care to patients who need help recovering from a health condition. Schedule an appointment with us to begin the treatment process.
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