There’s no denying that stroke survivors have a lot to deal with as they go through the rehabilitation process and learn to live with physical limitations. Unfortunately, too many people consider having a stroke to be a sign that they can no longer enjoy physical activity. For stroke survivors who love to play golf, the so-called physical limitations are not as pronounced as one might imagine.
Playing golf again is a real possibility
Except in the worst case scenario, the only thing that keeps most stroke survivors from getting back on the golf course is the assumption that they can’t. That assumption is wrong in many ways. Will your golf game be as proficient as it was before you hit? Probably not, but everything in life changes after a medical trauma. The reality is that golf courses are going nowhere and any golfer who wants to play golf belongs on the golf course. That includes Stoke victims who love the game.
It only takes three things for this to happen. First of all, the person affected by the stroke has to believe that he can do it. Second, they need to accept certain limitations and learn to play with themselves. Ultimately, the stroke victim needs to minimize expectations and maximize the joy that comes from being on a golf course rather than lying in bed feeling handicapped.
The Benefits of Playing Golf for Stroke Survivors
The benefits of being able to return to the golf course will touch almost every aspect of being a stroke survivor. From a physical standpoint, they reap the health benefits of fresh air and exercise. Doctors often encourage stroke victims to exercise their muscles and get their hearts beating again. Walking and swinging a stick helps move all the right muscles and restore balance and coordination.
When it comes to mental and emotional problems, there is nothing that revitalizes the spirit and soul more than overcoming impossible obstacles to achieve something important. If a golfer loves to play golf, then learning to do it again under different circumstances is an achievement that should bring a great sense of pride to a disabled golfer. In many cases, depression is actually a greater threat to well-being than another stroke. By going out on the golf course and proving that he is still a player, the grieving person will no longer feel so grieved.
Finally, engaging in a social activity is of great value to a stroke survivor who has been hospitalized and/or homebound for a period of time. The opportunity to hang out with friends and golf buddies makes a person feel like they are still a part of life here on this planet.
Drills designed to make playing golf easier for the stroke victim
As you contemplate that first post-strike round of golf, there are several exercises that can help restore stamina, balance, and coordination. Walking is essential. Even cyclists will record the distance during a round of golf. By going for a walk every day, you will improve your stamina on the golf course. For balance and coordination, doctors recommend sitting on a stability ball, but for those affected by stroke, a physical therapist should shut you down unless you have progressed. By doing this exercise for a few minutes every day, your balance and ability to control your arms and legs will show marked improvement over time. A more sensible exercise at home would involve the use of a chair. While the person with the stroke is standing in the corner of a room, hold onto the back of the chair and practice moving the hips forward and backward and from side to side. This is also beneficial for strengthening the weakened side. If the survivor also has foot drop experienced by many stroke victims, a brace recommended by the person’s doctor for safety. It can be of great help even if using a stroller, as walking can quickly tire the weak leg at times.
Making golf easier for stroke survivors
The golf world is well aware that some stroke victims love the game of golf. With that in mind, there are many custom equipment designers who are more than happy to help design golf equipment that complements a golfer’s disabilities. Another way golf is made easier for stroke victims is the process of making them feel normal. Disabled golfers are often reluctant to play golf with able-bodied people for fear of slowing down the group. First of all, golf is a courtesy game and golfers tend to be very patient with those who may not be as skilled as others in the group. With that said, there are many golf courses that sponsor groups that have disabilities. By playing golf with other disabled golfers, the individual does not feel the need to play, but to enjoy the ride.
Golf is a great sport and activity. If you or someone you know has had a stroke and would still love to play links, by all means make it happen. With reasonable expectations, that first round of golf will feel like a rebirth of sorts, making the stroke victim no longer feel like a victim and more like a winning survivor.