When a blood clot or plaque build-up leads to a stroke, the area of the damaged brain and the amount of damage determine what happens next. The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body and vice versa.
If the right side of the brain is damaged during a stroke, the left arm, leg, and face will be impacted. If the brain damage is on the left side, it’s the right side of the body that doesn’t work effectively. When the stroke occurs in the right or back of the brain, vision is more likely to be impacted. Strokes in the brain stem can be the most severe and affect both sides of the body
If your dad is right-handed, a stroke in the right side of the brain may not impact the use of his arm and hand for writing. If he had a stroke in the left side, he’d likely lose the use of his right hand. This matters a lot when it comes to hygiene and grooming tasks. What tasks will your dad need assistance with, and how can personal care at home help? Here are a few tips:
What Are Your Dad’s Facial Care Needs?
Washing his face will be very difficult for your dad once he’s lost the use of an arm and hand. You’ll need to wash his face for him. He’ll also need help shaving, applying facial moisturizer, and trimming his mustache, beard, and eyebrows.
When washing his face, use a gentle, unscented soap that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or alcohol. Look for products that the American Academy of Dermatology approves to find one that’s gentle for your dad’s thinner skin.
Wash your dad’s face using warm water and avoid using an abrasive washcloth. Fingers are all that’s needed, and you don’t need to scrub. Gently wash and rinse dry. Apply an unscented moisturizer if his skin is dry. If he is spending time outside, look for a moisturizer that contains a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
If your dad shaves, he’ll need help with that, too. Apply his preferred shaving cream and use the razor in firm strokes that follow the direction of the growing hair. Don’t push down so hard that you cut the skin. Razors with wires to protect the skin from the blades are ideal. Rinse the blade every few strokes. Be careful around the cheekbones, jawline, and Adam’s apple.
It may be easier to purchase an electric razor. You’re less likely to cut your dad with this type of grooming device.
Your dad may have a beard or mustache. Use scissors or a haircutting kit to keep his facial hair trimmed to his liking.
Personal Care at Home Can Help with All of These Facial Care Tasks
Post-stroke care depends on the severity of the stroke. Talk to your dad’s doctors about his recovery. Ensure you’ve arranged personal care at home if he needs help with facial care, toileting, hygiene, and grooming. With personal care at home aides, your dad has all the help he needs with shaving, skincare, and other grooming tasks.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm
If you or an aging loved one is considering personal care at home in Shepherd, MT, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Billings today. 406-839-2390
