Mini-strokes, or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), involve a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain that generates symptoms lasting less than 24 hours. During these strokes, seniors may experience headaches like they’ve never had before, or they may suddenly pass out without warning. Although mini-strokes may be shorter than major ones, they can still cause lasting harm. They also place seniors at risk for more significant stroke events. Watch out for these five causes of mini-strokes in seniors so you can help your loved one avoid them.
1. High Cholesterol
A mini-stroke is usually caused by a blood clot that affects the brain. Seniors with high amounts of plaque and fat in their blood vessels and arteries are more likely to develop clots. If your aging loved one has high cholesterol, make sure he or she takes his or her prescribed medications. Your loved one may also need to follow a heart-healthy diet that can reduce the chances of developing a clot.
A home caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare healthy meals. Homecare providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is another circulatory system issue that affects how well blood flows to the brain. Hypertension can cause damage to the lining of the blood vessels and allow fluid to leak into the brain. It can also cause vessels to narrow, reducing the amount of blood that flows through the brain. If blood stops flowing, it can lead to a clot that causes a mini-stroke. Seniors with hypertension can reduce their blood pressure by following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking.
3. Carotid Artery Disease
The carotid artery serves as the major pathway for blood to get to the brain. When this artery becomes blocked, blood flow to the brain stops. This disease usually occurs after a person’s cardiovascular health issues have gone on for some time. In some cases, seniors may need to have their carotid arteries cleared using surgical methods, such as angioplasty and stents. If your loved one needs this type of care, make sure he or she has help arranging for treatment after returning home. Taking care of carotid artery disease can prevent a mini-stroke in the future.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one address health challenges at home in safety and comfort. Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Pearland, TX, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
4. Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes can have serious health effects, including TIAs. Over time, the circulatory system stops functioning normally in response to the constant fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Help your loved one follow his or her diabetes care plan by taking steps such as arranging for medication reminders to prevent complications.
5. Stress
Seniors who are under tremendous amounts of stress tend to be in poor health. Stress levels affect blood pressure, and seniors who are having difficulty managing the stress in their lives may not follow healthy diet and exercise plans. Help your loved one find ways to relax, such as having help around the house, so he or she is less likely to have a stress-related stroke.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Pearland families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Assisting Hands Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today to learn more about our customized care plans.
