Advancing years catalyze various physiological changes, leading to unique challenges. In the golden years, one needs to be mindful of food choices and physical movements. Exertion in physical activities can cause various difficulties like arthritis, knee pain, joint pain, and so on. Therefore, it is important to make healthy choices with diets and routines.
When we are talking about the challenges facing older people, one of their particular concerns is the increasing risk of strokes. Strokes are one of the leading causes of death among people of all ages. One cannot say that younger people are safer from this particular cardiovascular issue. However, due to physiological challenges, older people are particularly prone to this issue.
In today’s blog, we take a look at the steps to reduce strokes and how, particularly, caregivers at home help older people. However, before going toward this, we will cover some other aspects, particularly stroke and its symptoms.
Table of contents
- What is a stroke?
- Symptoms of Stroke
- Causes for Stroke
- How can you reduce strokes?
- How do caregivers help reduce strokes?
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when there is a blocked artery that doesn’t let enough blood flow into the brain. As a result, the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen or protein, and the brain cells begin to die. It is a life-threatening emergency condition, so it is important to take timely action, especially during a stroke. Apart from a blocked artery, bleeding in the brain can also cause a stroke.
Stroke can occur to anyone, but people in the later stages of life are more susceptible to the condition. Due to changes in physiological conditions, older people have difficulty carrying out several tasks. One of them is mobility and meal preparations at home. Older people must have an oxygen-rich and nutrient-based diet for healthy blood flow and cardiovascular health.
If your older loved one is staying at home alone, it is important that someone stay with them around the clock. This ensures complete security, as the loved one will have peace of mind and won’t feel isolated. Various home care agencies offer caregivers to help out loved ones with various activities. Since the caregivers are trained, they also have a bit of knowledge about the evolving needs of loved ones. We will delve deep into this in the coming section.
Symptoms of Stroke
It is important to remember and recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke. By understanding the symptoms, you can take timely action to save a loved one. Since stroke is a life-threatening condition, every second counts in this critical action.
Check these Symptoms of Strokes:
- Numbness in one part of the body or paralysis
- Drooling on one side
- Dizziness or fainting
- Unconsciousness
- Uncoordinated movement or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Difficulty in speech
- Blurred vision or slurred speech
- Severe headache without any cause
If you recognize such symptoms, remember to call 911 without any delay. Keep the paramedics involved, and don’t drive the person yourself to the hospital. Unnecessary movements can increase the risk of death. Also, don’t give the individual anything to eat or drink because he or she may have difficulty speaking. Calling for immediate medical attention is important; stay by your side until a medical emergency arrives.
Causes of Strokes
There can be ample reasons for stroke. Since every individual has a different lifestyle, unhealthy ones increase the chances of strokes.
Take a look at the various causes of stroke
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Limited physical activity
- Medical history of stroke in the family
- Advancing years or aging
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
Advancing years increase the chances of stroke. Therefore, lifestyle matters a lot during your golden years. It is important to adapt to a healthy lifestyle to live better and enjoy your independence. Don’t hesitate to ask for help whenever needed, as developing a life-threatening condition like a stroke can have a long-term impact.
How can you reduce strokes?
Taking some preventive steps can reduce the chances of stroke in the golden years. Stroke is recognized as one of the leading causes of death among people; it is important that you start taking into consideration your health.
The good news is that strokes can be prevented simply by taking small steps. It starts with a change in lifestyle and healthy habits. Eating fresh and engaging in physical exercises make you active in the long run.
Preventive measures for stroke you can take:
- Healthy diets
- Regular exercises
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Managing normal blood pressure
- Manage cholesterol
- Take control of diabetes
How do caregivers help reduce strokes?
We understand that you have your commitments and have challenges caring for your loved one 24/7. However, certified and trained caregivers help loved ones stay fit and healthy by monitoring the signs of health concerns. They keep tabs on their health and keep you updated about it.
Here is how Caregivers play an Important Role in Stroke Prevention
Medication Management
- Ensures that a loved one is taking medication on time
- Keeps tabs on the medication intake and adverse impact of medication on health, if any
Monitoring Health Signs
- Monitoring of blood pressure
- Speaking to the healthcare provider about health concerns
Preventing Falls and Head Injuries
- Decluttering the house to remove tripping hazards
- Ensures that the rooms are well-lit with installed grab bars and handrails
Physical Activities
- Encouraging loved ones to do gentle exercises
- Engaging in various physical activities with loved ones
Managing Chronic Health Conditions
- Providing a healthy lifestyle to manage chronic conditions, like diabetes
- Ensuring regular checkups from a healthcare provider
Promote Cognitive Stimulation
- Encouraging loved ones to socialize often and meet new people
- Join them in various games that are brain-stimulating
Quitting Smoking and Alcohol Moderation
- Encourage loved ones to quit smoking, and provide support and help groups
- Monitor alcohol consumption and check up on moderate intake
In Conclusion,
A stroke can turn out to be life-threatening if not taken promptly, so with the help of caregivers, you can make a proper plan that caters to the needs of your loved ones. The certified caregivers understand the evolving needs of your loved ones and work with them to fulfill them.
If you have been looking for a certified caregiver in Silver Spring, get in touch with Comfikare Homecare. We have flex care, where you get a trained caregiver to provide companion care benefits to your loved one while providing other home care services as well.
Ask the right question to choose a caregiver who meets the needs and requirements of your loved ones.
For more information on certified caregivers, contact us.