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Stroke: Perception Changes
Overview
When a stroke occurs on the right side of the brain, a person's ability to judge distance, size, position, rate of movement, form, and the way parts relate to the whole is affected (spatial-perceptual problems). People with these problems may have more trouble learning to care for themselves.
Signs of perception problems are often noticed by the caregiver of a person who has had a stroke. These signs may include:
- Not noticing people or things on the affected side and turning their head or eyes to the unaffected side. The person may not be able to steer a wheelchair through a large doorway without bumping the door frame.
- Not being aware of body parts on the affected side.
- Having trouble recalling how to form numbers and letters, or confusing similar numbers. The person may not be able to add numbers.
- Having trouble recalling the written spelling of words. The person may not be able to read.
- Confusing the inside and outside of clothing or the right and left sides of clothing.
- Having a hard time knowing when they're sitting or standing.
Helping someone who has perception changes
If a person has perception problems after a stroke, the stroke rehab team can teach you how to help. Here are some examples.
- Help prevent a fall.
- Cut down on clutter.
- Make sure that rooms are well lit.
- Install night lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
- Avoid rapid movements around the person.
Other people moving around in the room also may be distracting.
- Mark lines on door frames or full-length mirrors.
This can help the person see what is vertical.
- Do not overestimate the person's abilities.
Watch to see what can be done safely rather than taking the person's word for it.
- Help the person do a task.
- Tell the person how to do things if they have trouble remembering how to do a task.
- Put your hands in your pockets to keep yourself from gesturing as you talk the person through the steps.
- It may also be good to have the person talk through the task.
- Give lots of praise.
- Break tasks into small steps.
- Encourage the person to slow down and check each step carefully.
- Don't nag. Nagging may cause the person to become angry and upset.
- Arrange transportation.
People with perception problems-—even minor ones—should not drive a car.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
