Recognizing the Most Common Signs of Stroke

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Understanding the Common Signs of Stroke in Montgomery, AL

Seniors who have strokes are at risk of ending up with serious damage to the brain and other issues. Family caregivers should be familiar with the common signs of a stroke that can occur. Knowing what to do in this situation is also important. 

The FAST Acronym 

The FAST acronym provides an easy way to recognize the signs of a stroke so you can get help right away. The “F” stands for a drooping Face, while the “A” stands for weakness in the Arms. The “S” stands for Speech difficulty, and the “T” stands for Time to dial 911 for emergency care. If your loved one shows one or more of these signs, get immediate help from emergency services. 

One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care. Montgomery families can turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.

Other Common Stroke Signs 

Seniors may also show other signs of a stroke that occur suddenly, including confusion or severe headaches that seem to have no known cause. Seniors might also develop vision impairment that affects one or both of their eyes. They might also feel dizzy, have difficulty walking, and have numbness in a leg, an arm, or the face. Call 911 for emergency care if your loved one exhibits any of these symptoms. 

Less Noticeable Signs of a Stroke 

Symptoms of a stroke aren’t always easy to notice, but it’s important to be aware of them. In some cases, seniors might only have mild symptoms such as slight weakness in the arms. Family caregivers who suspect their loved one is having a stroke or has had one should seek care as soon as possible. Even minor strokes can cause ongoing health issues. Seeking prompt care lowers the risk of permanent damage. 

Identifying the early signs of stroke can help caregivers prevent major damage. In Montgomery, respite care is a great help to many families. Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times, which puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. However, an in-home caregiver can take over your loved one’s care, allowing you the time you need to focus on your own health, maintain a full-time job, or care for other members of your family.

Mini-Stroke Symptoms 

Mini-strokes, also known as transient ischemic attacks, can also occur as people get older. The symptoms of these strokes resemble those of a normal stroke, but they typically disappear within 24 hours. Symptoms of a regular stroke can go on longer. Keep in mind that regular strokes can follow these mini-strokes. A regular stroke can occur within a few days or a few months after having a mini-stroke. Seniors who have one or more mini-strokes should see their doctor for care. 

Importance of Immediate Care for Strokes 

Strokes can cause irreversible damage that lowers quality of life. Some of the complications that can occur include cognitive impairment, difficulty swallowing, difficulty speaking, and paralysis that affects certain muscles. Seniors might also develop emotional issues such as depression after a stroke. Other complications include ongoing pain in specific parts of the body, increased sensitivity to temperature changes, and a reduced ability to care for oneself. Having prompt care significantly reduces the risk of these complications, which helps seniors maintain their quality of life.

Strokes are one of the leading causes of disability. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Montgomery 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. To schedule a free in-home consultation, call Home Care Assistance at (334) 593-3988 today.

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