The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly 25 percent of stroke survivors experience second strokes. A second stroke typically occurs within five years after the first event. Seniors living with diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, or obesity have a higher chance of experiencing subsequent strokes. However, there are ways older adults can reduce the risk.
Make Dietary Changes
Nutrition plays a major role in addressing many medical conditions that have the potential to cause strokes. Your loved one’s diet should include an abundance of vegetables and fruits along with lean meats. Adding oily fish two or three times weekly provides much-needed omega-3 fatty acids that protect cardiovascular and central nervous system tissues. Fat and sugar-laden foods must be kept to a minimum or avoided entirely. Seniors should also opt for healthier snacking choices, such as nuts, whole-grain crackers and cheese, and fresh fruits.
A home caregiver can prepare nutritious meals that suit your loved one’s dietary needs. Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Lincoln 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 live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life.
Get Moving
Older adults may consume sensible amounts of calories each day. However, unless they also engage in some type of physical activity, seniors may gain weight or be unable to lose weight. Simple activities such as daily walking can strengthen the cardiovascular system, bolster energy levels, decrease blood pressure, and lower LDL cholesterol levels.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise in safety and comfort. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading home care service agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.
Lose Weight
Being overweight or obese puts a strain on the heart and encourages vascular narrowing due to high LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Being physically inactive also increases the likelihood of developing blood clots. With the care and support of their physicians and family members, seniors can eat healthier and be more likely to make the effort to lose weight.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco products are processed using chemical compounds that constrict blood vessels, which raises blood pressure and heart rate. Smoking also damages delicate lung tissue, which reduces the level of oxygen transferred to the blood to nourish cells throughout the body. Seniors need to find ways to quit smoking. There are many types of habit-kicking aids available over the counter. Physicians can also prescribe drugs that reduce cravings. Encourage your loved one to opt for healthier habits when cravings arise.
Adhere to Medication Regimens
Stroke survivors are often prescribed various medications to aid in recovery and prevent recurrent strokes. Seniors must take the medications as prescribed and follow up with their physicians as recommended. Monitor and document the beneficial results or adverse effects of the prescriptions your loved one takes. Dosages or medications may need to be periodically adjusted for optimal results.
Caring for a senior loved one can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Lincoln Home Care Assistance for the help they need. We provide high-quality live-in and respite care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (916) 226-3737 today.