A stroke takes place when blood flow is cut off from part of the brain, depriving the brain cells of oxygen and damaging them. Your elderly loved one can take some healthy measures to reduce the risk of stroke. Here are a few suggestions for what measures to take.
1. Keep Blood Pressure in Check
High blood pressure is the leading cause of most strokes, often doubling or quadrupling the chances of one occurring. Your loved one should try to maintain a blood pressure of 120 over 80 or lower to reduce his or her stroke risk.
2. Control Cholesterol
If your loved one has high cholesterol levels, this can lead to obesity, which raises the risk of having a stroke. Seniors should try to keep their weight in a healthy range by maintaining a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or less. A simple way to attain the ideal BMI and keep cholesterol levels down is through regular exercise and a healthy diet.
3. Quit Smoking
Smokers have double the risk of stroke compared to nonsmokers because the toxins in cigarettes increase clot formation, thicken the blood, and increase the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries. Smoking can also exacerbate the effects of other stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elder care. Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. Include Vegetables in the Diet
Consuming several servings of vegetables every day can reduce stroke risk because many vegetables contain folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12. These nutrients can reduce levels of homocysteine, which is an amino acid that, when levels are too high, can increase stroke risk.
Not all seniors are able to prepare nutritious meals without assistance. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Las Vegas, NV, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
5. Take a Baby Aspirin Daily
Senior women who take a baby aspirin every day may have a lower risk of stroke because aspirin alters the blood’s natural clotting action. However, this method isn’t effective for senior men.
Stroke is one of the most serious health concerns among aging adults. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care Las Vegas, a leading provider of homecare services. Las Vegas, NV, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. If your loved one needs assistance with the challenges of aging, reach out to one of our knowledgeable, compassionate Care Managers today at 702-919-0231.
