Inspirational Books for Stroke Survivors and Their Caregivers

Every year, around 795,000 people suffer a stroke. In fact, stroke is the top cause of long-term disability in America. Stroke not only changes the life of the person who has the stroke, but also the lives of the people around them. People close to the stroke survivor may suddenly find themselves pressed into the role of family caregiver. Stroke recovery requires a lot of work from everyone involved. The older adult will likely attend stroke rehab and be instructed to make several lifestyle changes. Family caregivers may find themselves providing transportation to rehab and other appointments and making modification to their lives and homes to make living easier for their loved one. All of this can be a lot to take in. One way to cope with stroke is to read books written by experts and by people who have experienced stroke in their lives, either as a survivor or as a caregiver. Below are some inspirational books that may help caregivers and stroke survivors through the life-changing ordeal.

The Journey Back by Lyn VanOver

This book is an account of VanOver’s own experience as a victim of stroke. At the time of the stroke, VanOver was a third-grade teacher. One day while teaching, she suffered a brain aneurysm that didn’t leave her with much chance of survival. But, survive she did. In fact, VanOver fought her way back from the stroke to teach again.

I’m a Little Brain Dead by Kimberly Davis Basso

Sometimes the only way to deal with something as devastating as a stroke is to find ways to laugh about it. Basso, a stroke survivor, wrote this irreverent book that is sure to keep survivors and caregivers laughing. She describes her experiences with complete honesty, but never forgets to laugh in the face of her challenges.

After a Stroke: 300 Tips for Making Life Easier by Cleo Hutton

Hutton, a stroke survivor herself, wrote this book to help stroke survivors through the recovery process at home. It provides practical tips for everything from dressing, to cooking, to traveling on an airplane. While the book is written for people who have had a stroke, the tips provided can help caregivers to help their family members live as independently as possible.

The Stroke Recovery Book: A Guide for Patients and Families by Kip Burkman, MD

Dr. Burkman is a doctor who has helped thousands of stroke victims and their families through the rehabilitation process. His book is designed to answer common questions that caregivers and survivors have about stroke, including how stroke affects the body and what can be done to prevent a second stroke.

Sources

http://www.strokecenter.org/patients/about-stroke/stroke-statistics/

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Monroe, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care of New Brunswick today. Call (732) 607-8870.