Everything You Need to Know About Strokes in the Elderly

Stroke is one of the main causes of elderly adult deaths. It is also one of the most common reasons why people in the United States get disability. It is important to know that strokes can be prevented. Raising awareness and increasing education on strokes in the elderly can save lives. If you are caring for a senior citizen and want to best protect their health, you should know more about strokes.

Learn the Basics of Strokes

If you have a loved one that you are taking care of and want to keep them healthy, you should learn the basics of strokes. Strokes or brain attacks happen when the blood flow that goes to one’s brain stops because it is clotted or blocked. The cells in the brain start dying off from the loss of oxygen from the sudden bleeding. Those who don’t die immediately can be saved if they get the proper treatment in time. There are ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.

Stroke Prevention Information

It is important to note that strokes can be prevented in many instances. Working with your loved one to reduce their risk of having a stroke is one of the best things you can do for them. It is also important to know that there are risk factors for strokes including ethnicity, race, gender, and age. Of course, there is nothing that can be done about these. There are also some medication conditions that can increase the risk of strokes. Things such as circulation issues, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other things can lead to an increased risk for strokes. In many cases, lifestyle changes can help to prevent a stroke. Exercise and eating healthy are 2 of the things that can be done to reduce the risk of strokes.

Warning Signs of Strokes

In addition to preventing a stroke, it is important to know the warning signs, as well. The results of the stroke can change from second to second. The quicker you can respond to the stroke and get the senior citizen help, the better. F.A.S.T. is what you should be looking for. Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 9-1-1. If you notice the symptoms, call 9-1-1 right away. Some other symptoms include sudden trouble with seeing, sudden confusion, sudden severe headache that doesn’t have another cause, and more.

These are the most important things to know about strokes in the elderly. If you are taking care of an elderly citizen and you want to protect them, make sure you remember this information about strokes. If they have an elder care worker, be sure they are aware of this information, too.

Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs_symptoms.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/healthy_living.htm

IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN ALTOONA, IA, FOR A SENIOR LOVED ONE, CONTACT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF DES MOINES, IA AT 515-631-5033. OUR CARING STAFF CAN ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS!