Our care experts outline the key steps in stroke prevention for seniors.
Experiencing a stroke is just the first step in a series of challenges. The results of a stroke can last long-term. In fact, the National Institute on Aging marks stroke as the leading source of disability in American seniors.
As with other serious health issues, stroke prevention for seniors is crucial.
What Can People Do to Prevent a Stroke?
Fortunately, there are many proactive measures that can be taken to prevent a stroke, including:
- Routinely exercising. The doctor can provide specific recommendations and guidelines on the best workout program for the individual.
- Following a healthy diet plan. Incorporate foods that are low in fat and cholesterol, including plenty of vegetables and fruits at each meal.
- Quitting—or never starting—smoking. Smoking dramatically increases the risk of a stroke.
- Managing diabetes. Diabetes, when not properly managed, can damage blood vessels and narrow arteries, which can result in a stroke.
- Watching blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Hypertension and high cholesterol levels can both lead to cardiovascular disease and/or stroke.
These changes in lifestyle can go a long way towards decreasing the risk of stroke, and can also help prevent a second stroke if the person has already suffered one.
What Are the Signs of a Stroke?
If a person does have a stroke, it is important to know the signs and to act right away. Time is of the essence, and getting immediate medical care can save a life.
- Signs of a stroke include:
- Confusion
- Sudden vision problems
- Drowsiness
- Sudden dizziness, loss of balance and coordination, or trouble walking
- An extreme headache that occurs for no known reason
- Difficulty talking
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, particularly in the arm, leg, or face
- Nausea/vomiting
What Will the Stroke Recovery Process Involve?
Stroke recovery begins with therapy. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or speech therapy, depending on how the person has been impacted.
- A physical therapist can help the person recover basic skills such as walking, sitting, standing, and transitional activities.
- An occupational therapist aids in retraining on activities of daily living that may have been compromised, such as preparing meals, getting dressed, eating, drinking, taking a shower, etc.
- A speech therapist helps with the recovery of speaking as well as understanding what others are saying.
The intention of all of these rehabilitative therapies is to help the person maximize independence and self-sufficiency.
The Role of In-Home Care
A home care provider, like Hearts at Home In-Home Care, is a fundamental element of both helping a person prevent a stroke and assisting with a stroke survivor’s recovery. Our home care services are highly personalized to each individual’s needs, and can include:
- Offering transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments and any other desired outings
- Planning and preparing nutritious meals
- Running errands, such as picking up groceries and prescriptions
- Providing medication reminders
- Motivating the individual to stick to a doctor-approved exercise regimen
- And much more
Give us a call today to find out how an in-home caregiver from Hearts at Home In-Home Care can improve wellness and safety for someone you love. You can reach us any time at 913-440-4209. We are pleased to offer care throughout Leawood, Mission Hills, Kansas City, Missouri, and the nearby areas.