What should a CVA patient be encouraged to do if they don't want to be around family?

Encouraging a CVA (Cerebrovascular Accident) patient to look in the mirror serves several important therapeutic purposes. Firstly, this activity can help them engage with their self-image and boost self-awareness. After a stroke, individuals may experience changes in their physical appearance or functionality, and looking in the mirror can facilitate a connection with their identity.

Moreover, viewing themselves in the mirror can foster motivation for rehabilitation. It may encourage patients to practice facial exercises if they are dealing with facial droop or other motor deficits. This self-reflection can also lead to emotional expression, giving the patient a chance to process their feelings about their condition in a safe and private manner.

While the other activities listed, such as looking at a photo album or watching television, can provide some distraction or comfort, they do not engage the patient in the same active way that looking in the mirror does. Going for a walk may be beneficial for physical health and mobility, but if a patient is reluctant to be around family, they might not feel comfortable in public settings. Ultimately, looking in the mirror offers a unique opportunity for personal engagement and self-reflection that aligns well with the goals of rehabilitation.