Caregiver in Raleigh NC
May is National Stroke Awareness month – the perfect time for seniors, family members, and caregivers to refresh their knowledge of stroke symptoms and recovery. Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability
in the U.S., but too few know the warning signs of stroke and how to prevent one.
Think FAST
FAST is a technique used across the country to help identify the most common symptoms of a stroke. FAST stands for: Face, Arms, Speech, and Time.
– Face: Specifically, when one side of the face droops when an individual is asked to smile.
– Arms: When the person raises their arms, one arm will tend to drift downward.
– Speech: Becomes slurred or otherwise out of the ordinary.
– Time: Any of these symptoms, especially with a sudden onset, is cause for an emergency 9-1-1 call.
Other symptoms include sudden numbness on one side of the body, confusion, disorientation, changes in eyesight, loss of coordination, or severe headache. The key factor in all of these symptoms is time; they usually come on suddenly without any other known cause.
Prevention
While there are many uncontrollable factors that could lead to stroke, there are some lifestyle changes that can help lower the risk. Many of these changes have added benefits beyond stroke prevention.
- Diet: Eating more vegetables and whole grains and less sodium and fats is a great way to improve overall health. This is especially important for seniors, who are not only more susceptible to stroke, but also cardiac problems from cholesterol and high blood pressure.
- Activity: Exercise is a wonderful health boost no matter the age. Of course, all exercise routines should be discussed with a primary care doctor to make sure what type of exercise is appropriate depending on certain health factors.
- Tobacco and Alcohol: There have been strong links between tobacco and alcohol and increased risk for stroke. The best way to cut back on this risk is to kick the habit completely.
Again, all changes to a dietary and physical activity routine should be done under supervision of a doctor. A primary care doctor is the best person to provide insight into each person’s needs and concerns.
Elder Care Options
Professional caregivers can help loved ones stay on their recommended routines and help with more difficult tasks such as cooking nutritious meals. Even more, care providers can be there to call emergency services should their client begin to show alarming symptoms. When it comes to stroke, timing is crucial. Having a care provider present to call for help could make a world of difference.
If you or an aging loved one are considering caregiver services in Raleigh, NC or the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at HomeChoice Home Care Services. Call today (919) 847-5622
Source
http://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke
http://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/recognizing-stroke/signs-and-symptoms-stroke
http://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/recognizing-stroke/act-fast
http://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/preventing-stroke/lifestyle-risk-factors
http://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/preventing-stroke/medical-risk-factors
