The Ins and Outs of Strokes in Seniors: Signs, Rehabilitation, and Risk Reduction

Senior Stroke Care  |  February 16, 2024

What Every Senior in Vancouver, BC Needs to Know About Stroke Risk, Reduction and Rehabilitation

Strokes in Seniors | Each year in Canada, there are more than 50,000 new cases of stroke, with one occurring every 10 minutes. The majority of these strokes (about 75%) happen to individuals over the age of 65.

When considering a stroke, we often think of paralysis on one side of the face, confusion, or a severe headache. These are all indications of a stroke, but they only touch upon the intricate understanding necessary to comprehend why strokes occur and how to effectively manage them to minimize the chances of death and long-term brain damage.

Types Of Strokes in Seniors

When discussing strokes, the phrase commonly used is “ischemic stroke.” This type of stroke makes up approximately 80% of all cases and happens when a blood vessel leading to the brain becomes obstructed. This blockage restricts blood flow to specific areas of the brain, resulting in a lack of oxygen. As little as one minute without oxygen and vital nutrients can cause brain cells to perish.

An alternative form of stroke, referred to as a hemorrhagic stroke, makes up 20% of all cases. This occurs when blood enters the brain and causes harm to neural cells. Typically, this type of stroke is caused by an aneurysm that ruptures due to unmanaged hypertension.

Signs Of Strokes in Seniors

As you are aware, timing is crucial in dealing with stroke occurrence. Delay in treatment can lead to permanent brain damage, even if the cells do not die immediately. Recognizing signs of a stroke can be challenging as they vary depending on the type and may be subtle, especially for seniors who are more prone to strokes than any other age group.

The following are indications to watch for in yourself or an elderly family member. It is important for all those in regular contact with the individual to also be aware of these signs, so they can recognize when it is necessary to seek urgent medical help.

• Confusion or sudden changes in behaviour
• Partial loss of vision
• Sudden trouble walking and/or dizziness
• Sudden loss of coordination
• Sudden severe headache
• Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding others
• Onset of weakness or paralysis of any part of the body
• Double vision

Should you observe any of these indicators in your elderly family member, do not hesitate or delay until the situation worsens. As previously mentioned, it is crucial to promptly reach out to emergency services before irreversible harm is done to the brain. Time is of the essence, as treatment success largely depends on a diagnosis within three hours of onset and arrival at the hospital within one hour.

Strokes in Seniors: Rehabilitation

The necessary rehabilitation varies greatly based on the severity of stroke damage but typically involves at least one form of therapy or a combination. Physical therapy aids in relearning basic motor skills – from walking to lying down – through targeted exercises. Occupational therapy is also beneficial, assisting patients in regaining abilities for daily tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and reading/writing. Speech therapy may also be suggested as a means of rebuilding communication skills.

Hypertension is often the culprit behind strokes. Therefore, doctors may recommend medication to regulate blood pressure and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Strokes in Seniors: Prevention

Over the past few decades, there has been a noticeable rise in the survival rate for strokes. According to the American Heart Association, although stroke used to be the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, it has now dropped to fifth place. While credit can be given to improved understanding of warning signs and successful treatment methods, education on recommended lifestyle modifications has also played a significant role.

Below are some suggestions that your loved one can implement to lower their chances of experiencing a stroke:

• Manage blood pressure
• Minimize stress (through healthy outlets)
• Quit smoking
• Limit consumption of alcohol
• Exercise regularly (upon physician approval)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Modify diet to include foods that are low in saturated fat and sodium
• Manage cholesterol levels (consult your physician for options)

Initiating risk reduction involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Despite a family history of stroke, it is recommended to urge your older relative to adhere to these recommendations. Additionally, ensure that they also book regular medical appointments with a healthcare provider to identify any other potential risk factors and preventive measures.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

Comfort Keepers® is the preferred choice for many families when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Respite Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Interactive Caregiving™

Comfort Keepers®’s trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. Learn more about our unique service which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance Right Where You Live.

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

References:

• MedicineNet.com. “Stroke Symptoms and Treatment” by Benjamin Wedro, Charles Patrick Davis. Web. 2017.
• NIH Senior Health. “Stroke.” Web. 2017.
• American Heart Association. “About Stroke.” Web. 2017.

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