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she can no longer walk, write or do any basic function?

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my mother had been doing very well and was considered a perfect candidate for rehabilitation. she was practically able to dress herself, could walk with frame and was continent during day. she suffered numerous uti's and bowel infection (cdiff)and had deteriorated considerably. she now needs to be hoisted in and out of bed and doctor thinks she may be having "complex partial seizures". she can no longer write and is totally incontinent. what could be happening. the doctor says that the seizures would not cause further brain damage but yet she can no longer walk, write or do any basic function. he also mentioned that she could have accerelated progression of cognitive impairement after secondary wave of inflammation after brain surgery. what is your opinion. she was such an active fit 68 year old and we are totally devastated, especially not knowing what the future holds for her. if we knew it would be easier. please help if you can offer any information at all.


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replied March 31st, 2011
Brain and Head Injuries Answer A21492
Hi, welcome to the ehealth forum and I am glad to help you.
You seem concerned by the complications of stroke in your mother.
A stroke is a life-changing event that can affect the emotional well-being as much as the physical function. Feelings of helplessness, frustration, depression and apathy aren't unusual.
Maintaining patient's self-esteem, connections to others and interest in the world are an essential part of recovery. These strategies may help you, other caregivers and your mother:
1. Accept that physical and emotional recovery will involve tough work and take time.
2. Get out of the house even if it's hard. Try not to be discouraged if she needs wheelchair to get around.
3. Join a support group. Meeting with others who are coping with a stroke lets her get out, share experiences and exchange information.
4. Let friends and family know what she needs. People may want to help but not be sure how.
5. Let her know that she is not alone. Nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke every year. About 6.5 million are living with stroke today.
The glimpse of a rehabilitation plan as above is suggestive only as every patient needs one tailor made for him/her. You can discuss the same in detail with your personal physician as it is not possible online.
Hope this helps. Take care.
Note: This post is not to emphasise final diagnosis as the same cannot be made online and is aimed just to provide medical information and no treatment suggested above be taken without face to face consultation with health care professional.



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