Webster defines adaptation as “the process of adapting: the state of being adapted; adjustment to environmental conditions”
Adaptation is what I do to lead a productive life and enjoy the things I did pre-stroke. For example most of my adaptation stems from having to deal in a one-arm world with an immobile left arm (I was a lefty prior to the stroke). So to cook, exercise, read, etc. I need tools that allow me to perform with this limitation.
For example, try to make a key lime pie with one hand! Just separating four eggs with only a functioning non-dominate hand is daunting. After having a stroke, you slowly realize that some of the things you’ve done before, you can no longer do. You have two choices: 1) Don’t do it. 2) Find the tools you need to make it work.
One night while visiting my sister in Las Vegas, I had a bout of insomnia and found myself watching infomercials. At 4 a.m. one caught my eye, the Egg Yolky egg separation tool. I realized that this tool could be a breakthrough in allowing me to cook again and solve my key lime pie problem!
Meet Egg Yolky.
I have learned to use many other devices to help me overcome a one-armed world. More posts will be forthcoming to share my secrets.
My husband, Bob, has started a blog in connection with this one: Caregiver Bobby. His blog can be found on the left sidebar titled “Bob Bacon’s Caregiver Survival Guide” and covers practical tips for caregivers.
