The rehabilitation process and learning to live with physical limitations are difficult for stroke survivors, there is no doubt about that. Unfortunately, a lot of people mistakenly believe that having a stroke means they can no longer participate in physical activities. These alleged physical restrictions don’t affect stroke survivors who enjoy playing golf as much as one might think.
Playing Golf Again is a Real Possibility
The assumption that they can’t do it is usually the only thing stopping most stroke survivors from returning to the golf course, barring the worst-case scenarios. In numerous ways, that presumption is incorrect. Will they be able to play golf as well as they did before the stroke? Most likely not, but after a medical trauma, everything in life changes. The truth is that golf courses won’t disappear and that every golfer who wants to play belongs on a course. Included in this are game-loving stroke victims.
To make it happen, only three things are necessary. The stroke victim must first have confidence in their abilities. Second, they must learn to play within their own limitations and accept some restrictions. Finally, the stroke victim must reduce expectations and focus on the joy of playing golf rather than lying in bed feeling helpless.
The Benefits of Golfing for Stroke Survivors
Nearly every aspect of the stroke survivor’s being will benefit from being able to play golf again. They receive the physical advantages of exercise and fresh air for their health. Doctors frequently advise stroke victims to exercise their muscles to restart their hearts. To move all the necessary muscles and regain balance and coordination, walking and club swinging are helpful.
There is nothing that revitalizes the spirit and soul more than overcoming insurmountable obstacles to accomplish something significant in terms of mental and emotional issues. If a golfer is passionate about the game, mastering it under new conditions should be a proud moment for him or her. In many cases, depression poses a greater risk to one’s health than a subsequent stroke. The affected person will stop feeling as affected by getting out there on the golf course and demonstrating that they are still a player.
A stroke survivor who has been hospitalized or is otherwise confined to home for a while can benefit greatly from taking part in social activities. A person can feel like they are still a part of life on this planet by having the opportunity to go out with friends and golf partners.
Exercises Designed to Make Golfing Easier for the Stroke Victim
There are several exercises that can aid in regaining stamina, balance, and coordination as you plan your first round of golf after a stroke. Even cart riders will cover distance during a round of golf, so walking is required. It will help with endurance on the golf course to get outside daily for a walk. Doctors advise sitting on a stability ball for balance and coordination, but stroke victims should have a physical therapist nearby unless they have made progress. One can significantly improve their balance and arm and leg control over time by performing this exercise for just a few minutes each day. The use of a chair would make an at-home workout more sensible. The stroke victim should stand in a corner of the room, hold onto the back of the chair, and practice moving their hips forward, backward, and side to side. This helps to strengthen the weaker side as well. If the survivor also has dropfoot which many stroke victims experience, a brace recommended by the persons doctor for safety. Even if a cart is used, it can be very beneficial because walking can sometimes quickly exhaust the weak leg.
Making Golf Easier for Stroke Survivors
The golfing community is well aware that some stroke victims are avid players. In light of this, there are many companies that design specialized equipment and are more than willing to work with golfers who have disabilities to create equipment that complements their needs. Making stroke victims feel normal is another way that golf helps them recover. Golfers with disabilities frequently avoid playing with able-bodied players out of concern that they will slow down the group. First of all, golf is a sport of decency, and players have a reputation for being very forgiving of those who may not be as skilled as the others in the group. Nevertheless, many golf courses support organizations for people with disabilities. The individual feels less pressure to perform when playing golf with other disabled golfers; instead, they just want to have fun.
The game of golf is a wonderful sport. By all means, make it happen if you or someone you know has had a stroke but still wants to hit the links. The stroke victim will begin to feel less like a victim and more like a triumphant survivor after that first round of golf if they have realistic expectations that it will feel like a sort of rebirth.