Things to Know About Caring for Stroke Patients

Important aspects not to overlook when caring for patients with paralysis

Thailand is entering an aging society, which leads to an increase in degenerative and vascular-related diseases, especially stroke. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and leaves many patients disabled or unable to take care of themselves.

Caring for stroke patients is crucial—not only during the acute stage (when the stroke occurs) but also in the long-term rehabilitation phase, to help them regain the best possible quality of life.

What is Stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is insufficient, causing brain cells to lack oxygen and become damaged rapidly.

There are 2 main types:

Ischemic Stroke
Caused by a blood clot or fat blocking the blood vessels → accounts for about 80% of all stroke cases.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Caused by a ruptured blood vessel leading to bleeding in the brain → usually severe and life-threatening.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention

A simple way to remember is FAST

F (Face): Facial droop, uneven smile
A (Arm): Arm or leg weakness, unable to lift arms
S (Speech): Slurred speech, difficulty speaking or understanding
T (Time): Time is critical—go to the hospital immediately

⏱ If the patient is taken to the hospital within 3–6 hours, doctors may administer thrombolytic therapy, which can reduce severity and prevent disability.

Rehabilitation and Home Care for Stroke Patients

1. Physical Assistance

Physical Therapy: Walking and limb exercises to prevent muscle atrophy
Occupational Therapy: Practicing daily activities such as brushing teeth, dressing, eating
Speech Therapy: For patients with slurred speech or swallowing difficulties

2. Adjusting the Home Environment

Use an electric hospital bed to adjust sitting/lying positions and reduce pressure sores
Make the home safe with bathroom rails, clear pathways, no obstacles
Use a wheelchair or electric wheelchair for easier mobility

3. Emotional Care

Many patients develop depression due to loss of independence
Family should provide encouragement, conversation, and activities the patient enjoys
Joining rehab groups or stroke clubs helps reduce loneliness

4. Preventing Recurrence

Strictly follow prescribed medications: antihypertensives, statins, anticoagulants
Control diet: reduce salt and fat, increase fruits and vegetables
Engage in light exercise as recommended by the doctor
Regular health check-ups and follow-up visits

Proper Patient Transfer Techniques

From hospital bed → wheelchair

Place the wheelchair at a 45° angle to the bed
Lock the brakes and raise the footrests
Support the patient to sit up, using the stronger arm/leg
Slowly rotate and sit down on the wheelchair

From wheelchair → hospital bed

Position the wheelchair at a 45° angle close to the bed
Help the patient place feet flat and support them to stand
Lean forward and use the stronger side to transfer onto the bed

Common Problems in Stroke Patient Care

Pressure sores: Reposition every 2–3 hours and use an anti-bedsore mattress
Swallowing difficulties: Provide soft or pureed food to reduce choking
Swelling in limbs: Elevate with pillows above heart level
Lack of motivation: Family should talk, inspire, and remind patients of their value

Assistive Equipment

Electric or manual wheelchairs
Electric hospital beds with adjustable positions
Canes / crutches for partial mobility support
Anti-bedsore air mattresses

Having the right equipment helps reduce caregiver burden and improves patients’ quality of life.

Conclusion

Caring for stroke patients requires time, patience, and understanding from both family and healthcare professionals. Patients need not only physical treatment but also emotional support and a proper environment to return as close to normal life as possible.

Fasicare is ready to support you and your family with safe, certified equipment such as electric wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, hospital beds, and rehabilitation devices, along with complete after-sales services.