A stroke can be life-altering. Even a reasonably mild stroke can be terrifying and leave you making various lifestyle changes to aid recovery and protect your future health. Many people fully recover from a stroke, but some are left with cognitive or mobility issues. If you’ve had a stroke, you may worry about taking a summer vacation and spending time away from home. While your ability to travel will depend on the kind of stroke you had and where you are in your recovery, most people can continue to enjoy family vacations in the future. Here are some tips to help you.
Check-in with Your Doctor
No two strokes are the same. Everyone is affected slightly differently, and the recovery journey can vastly differ from person to person. Usually, even after a mild stroke, doctors will recommend waiting for ten days before flying, and if you’ve had a severe stroke, they may recommend waiting longer or staying closer to home. Your usual doctor is the best person to advise you, and you should also speak to them about your medication while you are away and medication to help avoid blood clots during the flight.
Don’t Fly Alone
You are much more likely to have another in the first few weeks following a stroke. This means that most airlines will refuse to let you fly. Check your specific airline for their policy. Even if you are well out of this time period, and your doctor has confirmed that your risks of stroke are low, you may worry about flying along. A medical transport service can help people flying after a stroke, which is ideal whether you are alone and worried or need specific help because of mobility issues.
Don’t Fly
Of course, flying is a popular way to travel, and most of us look forward to trips abroad. But that isn’t the only way to travel; you don’t have to go far from home to enjoy a vacation with family and friends. If you are worried or are still recovering, you might prefer to stay closer to home so that you don’t have to worry about long trips, getting around the airport, blood clots, or getting healthcare if needed.
Get the Right Insurance
You may have more trouble getting travel insurance after a stroke, but it’s essential that you do. Ensure you are covered for medical needs and declare your condition before taking out a policy.
Plan Your Trip Carefully
If you feel back to your old self, you might be able to enjoy your trip as you usually would, but it’s still worth making sure you know where to get help if you need it.
If you are still struggling with your mobility, make sure you plan each aspect of your trip with that in mind, thinking about not just the flight but also getting around the airport and the hotel and how you’ll manage at your destination.
Vacations are important. They help us to relax and build memories. Many people suffer from depression and other mental health issues following a stroke, and vacations are a fantastic way to aid your recovery.
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