Another important “R’ Word……ROUTINE.
In a previous blog “see link below” I wrote about the concept of clinicians building Rapport with Stroke Survivors in order that the curative process can begin. Today as I was on my urban safari [my 6.30am walk], I was pondering the key role that ROUTINE has played/ [s playing in my rehab journey.
When you are an in-patient the daily routine which embraces you is, in many instances developed, controlled, and administered by other stakeholders, e.g., medical, nursing, rehabilitation staff- all of whom are committed to your healing journey.
Apart from participating, all the Survivor is required to do is to sit back, participate and enjoy the ride”
But the challenge/opportunity arises when you leave the hospital and return home -then as I found, you are suddenly on your own- you are the master of your own rehab destiny.
It is up to you to ensure that you continue to maintain the rehab journey without the security blanket of hospital!
As I have mentioned before in previous musings our rehab process is not like a dislocated finger or fractured wrist \{a finite period\}, it will/may require months, sometimes years of planned activity to help stroke survivors reach their potential
That is where ROUTINE comes to the rescue!
What did I do? Well with the help of my family I developed the following-
A range of exercises that would help me continue my journey.
A plan that focused I would devote to these exercises- walking, stepping my arm, my wrist and hand.
Objectives[goals\} were quantitative\{measurable]- to measure my progress.
Importantly what time of the day that I would undertake these exercises.
In short, I was setting up a daily ROUTINE that fitted my lifestyle, and that would ensure that I would be on the way to achieve my goals.
It is easy!! And Worthwhile.
Later, in my rehab journey I was assisted by Dr. Simone Dorsch, a renowned Stroke clinician \{Senior Lecturer, School of Applied Medicine Australian Catholic University, North Sydney Campus\} whom I worked with on a Tele rehab Project
Reminders- Why not put a Reminder Note on the back of the Bathroom Door
” Have you done your Stepping Yet?
On the inside of the Garage Door is another place- just to remind you.
Charts- Date/ Distance/Time – is a good system – it will show you your time spent and improvement!
This is what worked for me- I am not a clinician but I am committed to Giving Back- helping where I can.
Why not try it Fellow Stroke Survivors/Clinicians?
Some links to help-
My Blog on building Rapport
My Blog on writing Rehab Objectives
Happy Trails
Brian A Beh - Stroke Survivor
Poet, Philosopher and Child of The Cosmos