Strokes can cause devastating brain damage. However, the sooner a stroke is treated, the less likely extensive, long-term brain damage will occur. A stroke can happen gradually or strike without warning. Therefore, becoming familiar with the early warning signs of an impending stroke can ensure your senior loved one gets prompt life-saving medical attention if he or she does experience a stroke.
Headache
A headache that occurs suddenly without any other known cause can be an early warning sign of a stroke. The pain is usually severe and catches the individual off guard.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Clearwater families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Confusion
Sudden disorientation to a person’s surroundings or the current date and time can often indicate a stroke is occurring. The sudden lack of blood supply can quickly disrupt otherwise normal mental functioning.
Slurred Speech
Another indicator the brain is being deprived of its oxygen supply is slurred speech. It will become difficult to understand your loved one in a conversation, and your parent will likely be unaware that his or her speech is slurred.
Facial Drooping
Facial drooping occurs when one side of the face becomes uncontrollably asymmetrical to the other side.
Impaired Motor Function
Seniors experiencing the beginnings of a stroke may have difficulty walking and lose their balance and coordination.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of homecare. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Visual Disturbances
Another stroke warning sign is a disruption in vision that may present as difficulty in focusing with one or both eyes. Visual symptoms such as double vision, blurriness, or blindness may also occur.
Dizziness
People in the early stages of a stroke may experience a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness. This dizziness may also be accompanied by vomiting.
Even seniors who fully recover after a stroke may require some assistance at home. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Clearwater seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers. To schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our qualified Care Managers, call (727) 330-7862 today.