Strokes are the number one cause of long-term disability. Approximately 800,000 Americans suffer from a stroke every year. Hence, it is important to understand what exactly happens when a loved one has a stroke and how assisted living communities in Wirtz, VA can support our loved ones who are on the road to recovery.
Understanding Strokes
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is cut off, resulting in brain damage or death. A stroke is caused by a blood clot that impedes the blood vessels from delivering blood to the brain cells. It is different from aneurysm, which is a ruptured blood vessel caused by high blood pressure or a weak spot in the artery. Additionally, an aneurysm may occur throughout the body.
Elderly people are more prone to strokes due to existing heart conditions such as arterial disease or atrial fibrillation, or blood clotting problems. Some elders may have all of these conditions, making them highly susceptible to strokes. Age, fitness, genetics and diet are also contributors to strokes. Hence, the older you are, the greater your risk of having a stroke.
A stroke can affect one or more parts of the brain. Often, it causes one-sided body weakness or paralysis, leading to a decrease in mobility. Strokes may also result in other side effects, such as incontinence. Each person may experience different side effects that result in varying medical needs after experiencing a stroke.
Levels of Care Offered by Assisted Living Communities
No two assisted living communities are the same, so it is important to check the specific guidelines of each community. For instance, some assisted living communities require residents to have no issues with mobility. That is, residents do not need assistance when moving around or transferring. Hence, our loved ones with limited or impaired mobility would not qualify for such a community.
On the other hand, there are assisted living communities that cater to residents with mobility issues and offer incontinence management, bathing and toileting aid, medication management and grooming that would greatly aid those with limited mobility who require help with activities of daily living.
It is thereby crucial to check whether an assisted living community offers the type of care required by stroke patients as specialized knowledge and training are prerequisites to caring for them. Families should ensure that their loved one’s social and physical care needs can be met by the senior living community.
How Assisted Living Communities Can Help Elderly Stroke Patients
Recovery can be a challenging process for those who have suffered from a stroke. An advantage of living in an assisted living community is the tangible goal of regaining independence. Specialized care services as well as thoughtful living arrangements will allow our loved ones to focus on their recovery with peace of mind.
An assisted living community with a well-rounded team of on-site licensed healthcare professionals, such as speech therapists, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, nurses and doctors, will remove the difficulty and inconvenience of having to travel to healthcare centers for residents’ therapy sessions.
Furthermore, having recreational activities and fitness classes designed for residents with impaired movement will improve their moods and empower them on their road to recovery. Such fitness activities may include meditation, group exercises and yoga.
Most assisted living communities also have a registered dietitian and chef on-site so food is freshly prepared every day to meet each resident’s nutritional needs.
If you or your loved one is looking to join a senior living community that offers personalized care for patients with stroke, learn more about our Assisted Living community by contacting us today!
