Changed in an instant

Etet
by Etet
Just completed master suite and kitchen redo. Done for esthetics. Two weeks ago hubby suffered brain injury now I have to think of diy projects for safety and convenience. He is ambulatory. Rails, grab bars....Easy ... turn down water heater,. Install locks up high (he is 6'3" so iffy) can't balance at new bar stools so have to buy a table, Rugs go, empty house of non essential meds and chemicals What am I not thinking of? Bet you guys have great ideas to make this easier.

  8 answers
  • Karen Krysowaty Karen Krysowaty on Aug 26, 2017

    First of all let me say that you sound like a terrific person who is tackling this head on., My husband suffered a severe stroke and so I know how hard it is. Make sure your tables in front room are sturdy so he can use them for support. and not knock them over. My husband needed a board under the couch cushions so he could raise himself up without sinking into the cushions. And yes your life has changed in an instant but it is 14 years and we are still going strong

  • Linda Linda on Aug 26, 2017

    Im so sorry for your husbands injury. I was able to get some help for inlaws from chore center run by county to help install bars. I will keep thinking for you.

  • Kim Kim on Aug 26, 2017

    Wow, I will keep you both in my prayers. A major sudden injury changed our lives as well. Remember to take care of the caregiver and accept support from others.

    I don't know if this will help but if you can't get the locks out of his reach, what about those door handle covers that prevent children ( and most adults) from opening doors?


  • Julie M. Julie M. on Aug 26, 2017

    I am so sorry you two are going through this. I have nothing to add to this except maybe updating the bath to accommodate any needs he may have. Wishing you both peace and healing.

  • Dawn Dawn on Aug 26, 2017

    You'll need lots of patience and a sense of humor. You'll need support now and later.....more later than now....believe me. Been there for 8 years. Hang in there.

  • Etet Etet on Aug 26, 2017

    Wow! You each sound like you manage. Cannot imagine our upcoming journey but others have walked it. He is an engineer by education so he will "problem solve quickly." I have added your ideas to a list for the guy I hire ..... one trip would be nice. So much to learn.

  • Molly Anmar Molly Anmar on Aug 26, 2017

    Before your husband leaves the rehabilitation center, representatives from the facility should assist you in determining what alterations are needed in your home to accommodate your family member. You may need to install ramps, modify bathrooms, or purchase special equipment. If he spent time in a shop or garage working with tools, that environment may also need to be modified.


    You should visit with the professionals in each therapy area so that you are aware of your family member's skill levels in relation to living at home. Also make sure you have proper instructions for use of any aids and devices which will be used. For example, if he will be using an augmentation communication device, you should work with speech/language pathologist to ensure that you are completely familiar with the equipment, batteries, information needed to operate it, and its maintenance schedule. Make sure to find a company to do repairs and provide servicing.


    This was a VERY useful article for families of brain injury patients, I thought:

    http://www.projectlearnet.org/pdfs/Making_Life_Work-after-TBI.pdf


    If he's tall and has trouble with balance, what about putting the door locks down very low instead of high?

    Have the drawers arranged with labels on the outside to describe the contents;

    a divided tray, properly labeled to hold wallet, watch, coins, glasses, etc. placed on the nightstand to ensure that personal items are not misplaced;

    a notebook or cue cards available with steps for completing tasks as simple as showering or other personal care routines.

    You might consider cabinet locks for those areas he shouldn't go in instead of getting rid of chemicals and meds you may actually need.

    It's nice to have a soft spout cover and covers for the tub knobs (cut up a pool noodle in a pinch) in the event of a bathroom fall.

    Also, stove knob covers (they're available at Walmart.com for about $13).

    https://www.walmart.com/ip/Stove-Knob-Covers-Charcoal-TV-Stop-Front-Strap-Plug-protection-Count-Clear-Appliance-Covers-Oven-stove-Outlet-S321-Guard-Children-Safety-Pack-KidCo/707035646

    Attach corner/edge guards on sharp-edged furniture to prevent injury in the event of a fall.

    Anchor tippy furniture and TV's with anchor straps that attach to the wall:

    https://www.lowes.com/pl/Furniture-securing-straps-Furniture-hardware-Hardware/4294711121


    Also contact your state's Brain Injury Association office for further information about cognitive and behavioral problems after brain injury:

    http://www.biausa.org/state-affiliates.htm




  • Etet Etet on Aug 26, 2017

    Great advice. I'm gonna' be a changed lady after I do these things. Yes, I can.