Using FAST to Identify Stroke Symptoms Immediately

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Act FAST and Prevent Senior Strokes in Montgomery, AL

Strokes are more common among the elderly population, as age is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is cut off as a result of a blood clot or a rupture in a vessel. When a blood clot is the cause, the stroke is referred to as ischemic. 

Today, there’s a treatment that can reduce the severity of strokes and prevent the debilitating effects that were once common after an individual experienced an ischemic stroke. This treatment is tissue plasminogen activator, and when given within three to four hours after an ischemic stroke, it can dissolve a blood clot and allow blood flow to the brain to resume. Administering this treatment as early as possible increases a stroke survivor’s chances of recovery tremendously. However, the key is to act quickly, or FAST. 

FAST is an acronym that can aid a family member in getting quick treatment for a senior loved one who may be having a stroke. The first three letters in FAST represent signs that can be observed when an individual is experiencing a stroke, while the last letter is a call to action. 

F Is for Face

When an individual is having a stroke, a common symptom is the drooping of one side of the face. If the person is asked to smile, the smile may look uneven if a stroke is occurring. One side of the face may also feel numb.

Strokes and other serious health issues can make it challenging for older adults to age in place safely. 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 Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

A Is for Arm Weakness

When the person is asked to raise his or her arm, if a stroke is in process, the arm will usually drift down to the side or feel numb.

S Represents Speech

If the individual has slurred speech and difficulty repeating a short simple sentence, such as “The apple is red,” this could be a sign of stroke.

Identifying the early signs of stroke can help caregivers prevent major damage. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Montgomery, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Home Care Assistance, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

T Means It’s Time to Call 911 if a Person Has Any of These Symptoms

Call immediately and report the time when your loved one began having symptoms.

Remember to act FAST when suspecting a stroke. It can save your loved one’s life. 

If you have a loved one who has recently experienced a stroke, it’s just as important to be aware of these symptoms to prevent a second stroke from occurring. Along with making dietary changes and increasing physical activity, your loved one may need to take specific medications to reduce stroke risk. Depending on the severity of the stroke, your parent may also require in-home care to ensure safety and comfort. 

If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of senior 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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