Physical, mental, and social activity can prevent a recurrent stroke, restore fine motor skills, and stimulate the mind. These forms of stimulation can increase the release of endorphins, which lower stress and anxiety and boost brain function. Continue reading to learn what exercises can boost your aging loved one’s cognitive health during stroke recovery.
1. Tongue Rolls
Moving the tongue up and down, side to side, and in and out can be used to treat aphasia after a stroke. Once seniors have exercised their tongues, they can start practicing different sounds. If there’s a certain letter your loved one is having difficulty with, have him or her pair it with various vowels. For instance, if it’s difficult to say the letter “r,” your loved one should pair it with a vowel and practice repeating the combination over and over. Examples include “ri,” “ra,” and “ro.”
Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Cincinnati, OH, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
2. Swimming
Doctors and physical therapists often recommend aquatic therapy during the stroke recovery process because moving in water can boost the flow of blood to the brain. Good circulation throughout the body supplies the brain with glucose, oxygen, and other nutrients that protect against dangerous toxins. As a result, your loved one can maintain a clear mind, increase the ability to focus, and boost his or her memory.
3. Brain Games
Losing cognitive functions could be overwhelming for your loved one, but keep in mind that many of these skills are restored during the first three months of the recovery process. You can increase the odds by encouraging your parent to play games that exercise the brain, such as puzzles, Scrabble, chess, and Lumosity. These types of games can stimulate the mind and keep your loved one’s brain active, increasing his or her processing speed, memory, and thinking skills.
An in-home caregiver can be a wonderful game-playing companion for your loved one. Families looking for top-rated elder care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care Cincinnati. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
4. Walking
Exercises such as walking promote better circulation and balance for senior stroke survivors. At the beginning of the stroke recovery process, your loved one may not be able to walk without using devices or being assisted by family and friends. Regardless, you should get him or her up and moving. Walking can boost strength and increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. Healthy blood flow can have a positive impact on brain health and enhance cognitive abilities.
5. Yoga
Doing yoga can boost mental and physical health while speeding up recovery. The movements and breathing techniques used in yoga soothe the body, boost energy levels, and enhance brain function. Yoga increases the body’s relaxation responses, which can enhance memory and lower the risk of confusion and forgetfulness.
6. Voice Exercises
Singing is an excellent way to strengthen cognitive health. Doing voice exercises can also reduce the risk of depression, which is common among senior stroke survivors. Singing can enhance cognitive processes and lead to stronger problem-solving abilities. Voice exercises can promote communication skills and increase cognitive flexibility following a stroke.
A professional caregiver can be a fantastic source of information and support for a senior recovering from a stroke. The type of at-home care Cincinnati seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors. For reliable in-home care services, contact us today.
