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Look
Visual things to pay attention to during your loved one’s inpatient rehab time
- Beware of reduced range of motion and increased stiffness in your loved one’s arms, hands, legs, and feet—these could be signs of spasticity
- Observe your loved one’s therapy sessions and take notes on the exercises and activities they are completing
- Keep an eye on your loved one’s sleep patterns and make note of any changes or disturbances
- Watch out for possible seizures, which can happen after a stroke

LISTEN
Instructions and details to make note of during your loved one’s inpatient rehab time
- Listen for signs of depression in your loved one (sadness, loss of interest, low self-esteem), which is common following a stroke
- Pay attention to all test results and recommendations for assistive devices, like walkers, wheelchairs, or canes
- Tune in to your loved one's personal goals for recovery. It's important to address these during team meetings
- Keep track of your loved one's requests for assistance with certain tasks
“
THERE’S NO VICTORY WITHOUT A BATTLE, BUT YOU GOTTA STAY IN THE FIGHT SO YOU CAN GET TO THE VICTORY.”
–FONTESSA, CAREGIVER

ASK
Conversations to have during your loved one’s inpatient rehab time
- Ask about exercises you can help with at home, and anything else that may aid in recovery
- Request a home safety evaluation before discharge so you can start thinking about how to prepare your loved one’s home
- Find out what can be done at home to help manage any muscle stiffness/tightness your loved one may be experiencing
- Request copies of all test results and a complete discharge summary

Do
Tasks to complete during your loved one’s inpatient rehab time
- Keep a record of your loved one’s progress for discussion with the healthcare team
- Continue inviting family members to attend weekly team meetings, as appropriate
- Meet with the social worker/case manager about transition plans
- Get finances in order and enroll in Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), if necessary

CAUTION
Talk to your loved one’s doctor if you notice any of these signs and symptoms:
- Spasticity (muscle stiffness/tightness)
- Sleep disturbances
- Seizures
- Difficulties with bowel movements
- Difficulties with bladder control
- Fever, which may be a sign of infection

CAREGIVER
MATTERS
Inpatient rehab may be a difficult time for you and your loved one, but there are things you can do to help ease the strain:
- BE INVOLVED Take an active role during your loved one’s therapy sessions. This can help you feel productive
- BE INFORMED Learn how to communicate effectively with your loved one’s healthcare team
- BE A BOOKWORM Pick up a new book to read during any downtime you may have
- BE PROACTIVE Determine when you may be able to start attending support groups or joining online discussions
- BE HEALTHY Talk to a dietician about ways you can stay healthy and strong