Even though strokes sometimes come without warning, seniors and their caregivers can take preventive measures to reduce the risk. Here are a few tips on how you can prevent your senior loved one from having a stroke.
Treat Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) causes the heart’s upper two chambers to beat out of sync with the lower two. It’s important to have your loved one tested for Afib, as it can cause blood clots that travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Treatment may involve a combination of oral medication and/or surgical intervention.
Control Blood Sugar
If your loved one experiences unexplained lethargy after meals as well as an overall increase in thirst and frequency of urination, he or she may want to get tested for diabetes. It’s important to keep blood sugar levels under control, as diabetes can significantly increase the risk of stroke.
If your busy schedule can’t accommodate extra attention to your aging loved one’s diet, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Frederick elder care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, in-home care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
Quit Smoking
Smoking increases blood thickness and causes inflammation in the blood vessels and arteries, which can result in the formation of blood clots. Consequently, smoking increases the risk of both types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
Implement a Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol Diet
High cholesterol can lead to blood vessel disease, and too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, both of which can put your loved one at greater risk for strokes. Eating a diet low in sodium and cholesterol can reduce the inflammatory effects of these substances on the body. Encourage your loved one to eat oats, walnuts, and greens, which tend to thin the blood.
An in-home caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare nutritious meals. Homecare services professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Watch for Warning Signs of Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
It’s vital to know the warning signs of a TIA, which include sudden unilateral weakness, visual distortions, and slurred speech. Many of these symptoms are similar to those of a stroke but may be of shorter duration and intensity. Though TIAs generally cause no brain damage, they can be serious warning signs of future strokes.
Seniors can reduce their risk of strokes by making some important lifestyle changes. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Frederick senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Assisting Hands Home Care team at (301) 786-5045 today.
