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 view having a stroke as a sign that they can no longer enjoy physical activities. 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 of cases, the only thing keeping 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 the shot? Probably not, but everything in life changes after a medical trauma. The reality is that golf courses are not going anywhere 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 to make this 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. Finally, 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 disabled.
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 get the health benefits of fresh air and exercise. Doctors often encourage stroke victims to exercise their muscles and get their heart beating again. Walking and swinging a stick helps to move all the correct muscles and restore balance and coordination.
When it comes to mental and emotional issues, there is nothing more invigorating to the spirit and soul than overcoming impossible obstacles to achieve something important. If a golfer loves to play golf, then learning to play 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 showing that he is still a golfer, the grieving person will no longer feel so grieved.
Finally, participating 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 serves to make the person feel that they are still a part of life here on this planet.
Exercises designed to make golfing easier for a stroke victim
As you contemplate that first post-swing 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’ll improve your stamina on the golf course. For balance and coordination, doctors recommend sitting on a stability ball, but for those affected by a stroke, a physical therapist should be shut down unless progress has been made. By doing this exercise for a few minutes every day, your balance and the 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 affected by the stroke is standing in a corner of a room, holding on to the back of the chair and practicing moving the hips back and forth and from side to side. This is also beneficial for strengthening the weak 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 a 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 that golf is 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 game of courtesy and golfers tend to be very patient with those who may not be as skilled as others in the group. That being 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, moving the stroke victim from feeling like a victim to more like a winning survivor.