Steps to Take if Your Aging Loved One Has a Stroke

The risk of stroke typically rises with age and is often associated with other risk factors such as hypertension. Signs of stroke may include sudden numbness, paralysis, or weakness (typically on one side), facial drooping, and difficulty speaking. Prompt medical attention is essential because it can prevent extensive neurological damage. Here are some things to do if your senior loved one has a stroke.

Call an Ambulance

Because signs of a stroke can be subtle, they can be mistaken for other, less serious conditions. If you notice your loved one is exhibiting unusual behavior, regardless of how subtle, call an ambulance so emergency treatment can be quickly implemented. When thrombolytic treatments are administered as soon as possible to dissolve the blood clot that caused the stroke, your loved one may be more likely to enjoy a more favorable prognosis.

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elder care. Trust Corio Home Care San Francisco by Institute on Aging (IOA) to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Stay at the Hospital with Your Loved One

Once your loved one has arrived at the hospital, stay with them in the emergency department as much as possible. They may be fearful and anxious and will benefit from your moral support. Another reason to get to the hospital as soon as possible is because the staff will need to ask you questions about your loved one’s medical history, current medications, and insurance coverage. You may also need to give your permission for certain medical procedures if your loved one is incapacitated and unable to make decisions independently.

Perform Household Maintenance

While your loved one is in the hospital, pick up their mail, pay their bills, and make sure their home is maintained. If they have pets, make sure the animals are fed on schedule and consider allowing them to live in your home to keep them safe and secure. If you’re unable to take care of them, ask other family members or friends to help or speak with a veterinarian for advice. In addition, if your loved one’s stroke has left them with mobility problems, consider installing a stairlift in the home so they can navigate the stairs safely.

Consider the benefits of hiring a home caregiver to help after your loved one is discharged. When searching for reliable hourly, live-in, 24-hour, or overnight home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones will be well taken care of. At Corio by IOA, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, accompany seniors to medical appointments, and much more. 

Focus on Recovery

The stroke recovery process may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. It often starts in the hospital, but it may continue even after your loved one has been discharged. Because of this, your loved one may need transportation to the outpatient therapy facility. You can drive your loved one to their therapy appointments or make alternative transportation arrangements through family and friends or a medical transportation company. If your loved one is unable to leave the home to attend therapy, you can make arrangements with their primary care doctor for in-home therapy services.

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. Corio by IOA’s 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. Call us at (415) 750-4111 to create a customized care plan for your loved one.