Seniors are at increased risk for strokes, which may strike quickly and have devastating physical and cognitive consequences. Immediate medical attention can not only save someone’s life but also reduce the damage caused by a stroke. For every minute a stroke is untreated and blood flow to the brain is blocked, the person will lose around 1.9 million neurons. Family members should be aware of the warning signs that a senior loved one is having a stroke so they can respond quickly.
Sudden Numbness
While this symptom may be difficult to recognize in someone else, you may notice your loved one’s mouth drooping on one side or see your parent having difficulty moving an arm or controlling his or her fingers.
Sudden Confusion or Difficulty Speaking
Language issues are one of the most common signs of a stroke. If your loved one has experienced a stroke, he or she may have slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or the inability to understand what you’re saying. Ask your loved one to repeat a simple sentence back to you if you suspect a stroke may be occurring.
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, a leading provider of home care service families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Sudden Vision Problems
A stroke can cause sudden vision problems in one or both eyes. These include issues such as difficulty looking to the left or right, blurred vision, or an inability to see clearly out of one eye.
Sudden Difficulty Walking or a Lack of Coordination
A senior experiencing a stroke may fall down, complain of dizziness, or walk as if he or she is intoxicated. Look for a sudden loss of fine motor ability, such as difficulty using a pen.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Las Vegas live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life.
Sudden Severe Headache
Many people experiencing strokes will complain of very intense headaches that occur suddenly. If such a headache is accompanied by pain in the face, vomiting, or a stiff neck, it’s a sign of an intracranial hemorrhage, and it requires a very fast response.
If you suspect your loved one has had a stroke, call 911 immediately. Make a note of when the symptoms began, and don’t allow your loved one to downplay the symptoms.
Caring for an older adult during stroke recovery can be challenging for family caregivers in Las Vegas. Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of senior home care services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more. Call Assisting Hands Home Care today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.
