Category: Stroke Care

When diabetic seniors have strokes, they must be very careful about what they eat during their recovery. Eating unhealthy foods could slow their recovery and potentially cause some problems with their blood sugar levels. While there isn’t a single diet that’s going to work for everyone, there are a few nutrient-dense foods most stroke survivors will benefit from. Here’s a quick glimpse at six healthy options that are perfect for stroke survivors who also have diabetes.

1. Steamed Fish

There are quite a few reasons stroke survivors might want to have at least a few servings of steamed fish every week. When fish is steamed, it’s very easy to chew, and it’s also packed with healthy amino acids. Many different types of fish also contain omega-3 fatty acids, unique compounds that are vital to brain health. Those who don’t enjoy the taste of fish should try to take an omega-3 supplement that has been infused with lavender or another herb.

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. Oshkosh, WI, 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.

2. Berries

Eating full meals can be very difficult for stroke survivors, and your loved one might need to have multiple smaller snacks throughout the day. A handful of fresh berries is a nutrient-dense snack packed with dozens of vitamins and minerals. That being said, diabetic seniors must keep track of how much sugar they consume. As a general rule, those who have diabetes shouldn’t have more than one or two servings of high-sugar fruit per day.

3. Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are filled with an antioxidant known as lycopene, and that unique carotenoid can protect the brain from damage. Tomatoes are also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. If your loved one has a difficult time chewing fresh tomatoes, try blending them and making a healthy soup out of them. 

Dietary issues can make caring for an aging adult after a stroke increasingly challenging. 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. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years.

4. Beans

The brain’s primary source of fuel is glucose, and beans are one of the best sources of that substance. Studies have revealed that glucose can also stabilize blood sugar levels, which makes it the perfect option for diabetic seniors. Beans can be added to practically any meal imaginable, and you can easily cook them at the start of the week so your loved one has a healthy dish in the refrigerator at all times.

5. Avocados

When it comes to brain health, very few foods are as beneficial as avocados. The brain uses the avocado’s oleic acid as a source of energy, and that compound can rebuild damaged synapses. As an added bonus, avocados are also very easy to eat, so they’re an ideal food for stroke survivors who have a difficult time chewing and swallowing.

6. Nuts

Another healthy snack your loved one might enjoy is a handful of almonds or cashews. Most nuts contain quite a bit of fiber, which boosts the cardiovascular system and digestion. Many types of nuts are also filled with healthy fats that reduce inflammation in the brain. If your loved one enjoys snacking on nuts, make sure he or she steers clear of any products with added sugar. 

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted homecare services provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. Call us today to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.

Once the medical team stabilizes a stroke survivor, rehabilitation begins. Approximately one third of senior stroke survivors lose the ability to speak. Others do retain their speaking ability but can’t remember the correct words to express themselves. There are a variety of tools family members might find useful in helping an aging loved one regain his or her communication skills.

The Written Word

Dysarthria following a stroke occurs because the muscles needed to speak are too weak. Seniors might be able to make sounds but be unable to form words. Some stroke survivors may be able to write to make their needs known. A simple pad of paper and a pencil are handy tools a stroke survivor can use to communicate. 

A portable whiteboard is another option. The senior writes words or sentences on the board with a marker. An eraser or cloth wipes the board clean for the next reply or request. 

A mobile device or laptop can also be used. The stroke survivor merely needs to use the notepad program to type in requests and responses. Electronic devices are also a good way for seniors to communicate with loved ones via text messages. 

If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a trusted provider of home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.

Talking Devices

These self-contained electronic tools have pre-recorded messages stroke survivors can use to communicate with others. A talking device can be used to make a simple request or give a response by simply choosing an image. The device then verbalizes what the image represents. 

Other devices contain written words or phrases that are converted into speech. More sophisticated versions enable users to type personalized messages on a keyboard, and the device verbally conveys the messages with the push of a button. Messages can be stored for later use, if desired. Apps that perform the same function are also available for mobile devices. 

Image Sets

Stroke survivors may have endured damage to the language centers of their brains. As such, they may have difficulty using the right words when trying to communicate. Image or symbol sets enable seniors to simply point to pictures that convey what they’re trying to express. Many types of sets are available, ranging from singular pages to booklets featuring images that represent a wide variety of topics. Image sets are also available as downloadable apps for older adults who are comfortable using smartphones, laptops, or tablets. 

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Oshkosh 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 Senior Stride Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life. 

Sign Language

In the event a senior never regains the ability to speak, sign language can be a great communication method. Stroke survivors and their family members might want to consider learning American Sign Language. By signing the letters of the alphabet and the various symbols for words, older adults can easily answer questions and make requests. Instructional books are available at the local library, and there are many online videos demonstrating the most commonly used signs. 

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 Oshkosh 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 talk to one of our friendly Care Managers and create a customized senior care plan, call us at 920-717-1767.

Strokes can affect seniors in a variety of ways. Some might experience short-term memory loss, while others might face challenges with paralysis or a change in motor skills. Since every senior’s symptoms are different, your elderly loved one’s doctor might recommend either traditional therapy or something more unconventional. Here are some of the alternative therapy options for recovering stroke survivors. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a common part of stroke therapy in China and Japan, though it’s still somewhat uncommon in the United States. This therapy stimulates nerves and muscles and increases blood flow, which can relieve pain and treat symptoms of paralysis and difficulty speaking and swallowing. 

Massage

Massage increases blood flow to the muscles and can boost mobility following a stroke. It can also lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can reduce the likelihood of future strokes. Massages also provide significant emotional benefits by reducing stress, anxiety, and even feelings of depression, all of which are common following a stroke. 

Caring for senior loved ones 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 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.

Tai Chi

This ancient martial art focuses on balance, which is often affected by a stroke. It also requires both sides of the brain to work together to produce smooth, coordinated movements. Tai chi is a low-impact activity, which means it won’t put undue stress on the joints. 

Yoga

Yoga reduces stress, which can combat the emotional effects of a stroke. It also increases balance and dexterity in the affected muscle groups and is an excellent all-around low-impact form of exercise for seniors. 

For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.

Music Therapy

Music therapy has been shown to help stroke survivors recover their gait, relearn speech, and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety. By learning the rhythms and patterns of his or her favorite music, your loved one can regain control over muscles that control skills like walking and speech. Relaxing or meditating to music slows breathing and lowers blood pressure, which can stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. 

Herbal Medicine

Certain herbs and supplements can increase blood flow and stimulate brain function. Herbal medicines like ginkgo biloba, mailuoning, and xuesaitong are often used in Chinese medicine as stroke treatments. It’s important for your loved one to check with a physician before taking any herbal medicines or supplements, since they can have adverse effects or interfere with prescription medications. 

Caring for a senior loved one who is recovering from a stroke can be difficult for family caregivers. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh in-home care providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

According to the National Stroke Association, 25 percent of Americans who have strokes will have recurrent strokes. In addition, the risk of a second stroke rises 40 percent within five years after an initial stroke. That’s why it’s so important for aging stroke survivors to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a nutritious diet, exercising as much as possible, quitting smoking, and taking prescribed medications.

If your senior loved one has had a stroke, the doctor will prescribe a variety of medications when your loved one is released from the hospital. As a caregiver, it’s important that you become familiar with these medications and their purpose in the stroke recovery process. Read on to learn more about common categories of post-stroke medications. 

Blood Pressure Stabilization 

High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke, especially for people who have already had strokes. Your loved one will probably be prescribed medication to lower blood pressure. There are a variety of classes of this type of medicine. Some decrease blood volume, while others dilate the blood vessels or slow the heart rate. 

If your loved one needs assistance while recovering from a stroke, consider enlisting the help of a trained home caregiver. 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 Senior Stride Home Care, a leading Oshkosh in-home care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

Blood Clot Prevention

After a stroke, it’s important to prevent clots from forming. Two common types of medication, anticoagulant medicines and antiplatelet drugs, are typically prescribed for this purpose. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, prevent blood clots from forming and keep existing clots from getting bigger. These are often prescribed for people who have atrial fibrillation. Antiplatelet medications prevent platelets in the blood from sticking together. Most people can take aspirin for this purpose, though other medications are sometimes prescribed. 

If your senior loved one needs professional in-home care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors.

Cholesterol Management 

Statins are types of drugs that lower cholesterol, another risk factor for stroke. Because statins can have side effects, it’s important to combine these drugs with other cholesterol-lowering measures, such as proper nutrition and exercise. 

If your loved one needs assistance or encouragement to eat a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise, a caregiver can offer tailored care and support while also watching out for symptoms indicating the risk of a second stroke. 

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. Oshkosh, WI, 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. To learn more about our highly trained caregivers, call us at 920-717-1767.

Various lifestyle and health factors can increase a senior’s stroke risk. However, your elderly loved one can take steps to address health conditions and make lifestyle choices that reduce his or her stroke risk. Here are some of the common causes of strokes and how your loved one can prevent them.

Smoking

Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of strokes. According to the National Stroke Association, smokers have twice the risk of experiencing strokes than nonsmokers. When your loved one stops smoking, his or her stroke risk significantly decreases.

Atrial Fibrillation

Seniors with atrial fibrillation are five times more likely to have strokes than those with normal heartbeats. Atrial fibrillation happens when the heart develops an erratic rhythm, beating out of sync at an abnormally rapid rate. This irregular rhythm allows blood to pool in the heart, which can form clots. The clots leave the heart and head to the brain, where they become stuck in the smaller blood vessels, causing obstruction, cell death, and, ultimately, a stroke. If your loved one has atrial fibrillation, he or she can work closely with a physician to manage the condition and reduce his or her stroke risk. The doctor may prescribe medication to regulate your parent’s heart rate.

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 homecare. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Inactivity

Being overweight and physically inactive can increase the risk of experiencing a stroke. To reduce your loved one’s stroke risk, encourage him or her to maintain a healthy weight, ideally by participating in more physical activity. If your loved one needs help maintaining a regular exercise regimen, consider hiring an in-home caregiver.

A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise at home in safety and comfort. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Senior Stride Home Care. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.

Hormones

Many older postmenopausal women take estrogen and progesterone supplements to replace hormones their bodies no longer manufacture. The reduced levels of these hormones due to menopause can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and disturbances in sleep patterns. However, senior women who use postmenopausal hormone therapy have a much higher risk of stroke than other women because the synthetic hormones have been shown to contribute to the development of deep vein thrombosis. Senior women who also smoke or have hypertension or diabetes are at even greater risk for strokes. If your loved one smokes or has high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, talk with her doctor about alternatives to hormone therapy.

Various Existing Health Conditions

Seniors with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, chronic heart failure, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, and diabetes are at increased risk for having strokes. Though many of these health conditions are chronic, working with a doctor to get them under control can minimize the amount of damage they cause to your loved one’s body and reduce his or her stroke risk.

Even if seniors have mobility issues or health challenges, they can still take actions to prevent strokes, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Elder care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Senior Stride Home Care team at 920-717-1767 today.

The National Stroke Association reports up to 25 percent of stroke survivors experience second strokes. To recover from the first event and prevent another, seniors must adhere to certain habits. By adopting healthier lifestyles, seniors can reduce their risk of second strokes significantly.

Take Medications as Recommended

The variety of prescription medications an older stroke survivor might be required to take include cholesterol-lowering agents, antihypertensives, and anticoagulants. Taking the medications as prescribed can alleviate the medical problems that more than likely led to the first stroke. Seniors must also make routine follow-up appointments with healthcare providers as recommended. Many medications also require periodic laboratory testing to ensure the medication is maintained at the proper levels in the blood.

Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Excessive sugar in the blood leads to systemic inflammation, which weakens blood vessels. Diabetes also leads to blood vessel narrowing and plaque formation. The long-term effects could cause a blood vessel to rupture from weakness or excessive pressure from internal blockages. Seniors need to restrict their sugar intake. Diabetic seniors must take their medications as prescribed and follow a proper diet.

Eat Better

A diet that routinely includes foods that are rich in fat and sugar elevates LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which leads to fatty plaque development in the blood vessels. The plaques impede blood flow and have the potential of causing a stroke in the delicate vessels in the brain. Seniors need to eat meals consisting of lean meats, poultry, and fish. Include plenty of brightly colored vegetables and fruits along with whole grains and nuts. 

A home caregiver can prepare nutritious meals that suit your loved one’s dietary needs. 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 Oshkosh 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.

Get Active

Living a sedentary lifestyle weakens the entire body. The musculoskeletal system loses mass, which makes it difficult for seniors to stand, walk, or engage in other activities. The cardiovascular system also becomes unable to circulate enough blood through the lungs and the rest of the body to accommodate physical activity. A lack of physical movement also increases the likelihood of developing life-threatening blood clots. Older adults must adopt a means of getting regular physical activity, which might begin with taking short walks. As they become stronger, they might choose to perform cardiovascular and strength training exercises. 

If your loved one needs assistance with exercising safely, consider enlisting the help of a trained home caregiver. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to an assisted living facility. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading elder care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

Lose Excess Weight

When the body carries around more than the amount of weight recommended for the body structure and age, the cardiovascular system undergoes stress, causing heart rate and blood pressure to rise. Many overweight adults also develop diabetes, which also disrupts cardiovascular health. By maintaining a healthier diet and getting sufficient exercise, older adults are able to lose and maintain a healthy weight.

Stop Unhealthy Habits

Smoking or otherwise using tobacco products impedes cardiovascular health. The compounds used to process tobacco are also responsible for elevating heart rate and constricting blood vessels, which leads to hypertension and stress on the heart. If the heart cannot effectively pump blood, blood clots form, and the potential for having a stroke increases. 

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. Oshkosh, WI, 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. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Senior Stride Home Care. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.

Recovering from a stroke isn’t a fast process, but there are quite a few steps senior stroke survivors can take to get back on their feet as quickly as possible. With comprehensive treatment plans, many stroke survivors are able to restore their cognitive health and motor functions within months. As an added bonus, seniors who carefully follow their recovery plans can also reduce their risk of having recurring strokes.

Keep an Eye Out for the Early Warning Signs

The early warning signs of a stroke often go unnoticed for hours, and missing those signs could have a huge impact on recovery. As a family caregiver, you should spend some time familiarizing yourself with all the signs and symptoms of a stroke, including loss of balance, slurred speech, weakness on one side of the body, a severe headache, and confusion. If you notice those signs and get your senior loved one to the hospital right away, a doctor might be able to administer medication or carry out a procedure that prevents long-term damage.

Focus on Repetition

After a stroke, many areas of the brain have been damaged, and that damage almost always impacts motor skills. To rebuild those skills, your loved one must practice repetitive movements. When an action is repeated over and over, it activates a biological process known as neuroplasticity. That unique function allows the brain to rewire itself, and it’s one of the most effective ways to rebuild synapses. Engaging in various activities multiple times a day can eventually make those tasks much easier.

A professional caregiver can help your loved one follow a safe, effective activity and exercise plan during recovery. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh elder care providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

Download Speech Therapy Apps

Working with an experienced speech therapist can be very beneficial, but seniors might want to carry out some exercises at home as well. There are now several high-quality speech therapy apps on the market, and many of these programs were designed for stroke survivors. These apps might have the user read complex passages or make shapes with the mouth to strengthen the muscles in the face and neck. Speech therapy can also make it much easier to chew and swallow, which reduces the risk of pneumonia.

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Oshkosh live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Senior Stride Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life.

Stick to Superfoods

There isn’t a single diet that’s going to work for every stroke survivor, but there are a few dietary changes most recovering seniors can benefit from. Stroke survivors need to focus on nutrient-dense foods that are easy to eat and digest. In the weeks following a stroke, some of the best foods to eat include sugar-free yogurt, scrambled eggs, protein shakes, and smoothies made from fresh fruits and vegetables. Homemade soups can be very healthy as well, and you might want to make a large pot at the start of the week so your loved one can grab a bowl whenever he or she is hungry.

Elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Communicating with their voices can be difficult for senior stroke survivors, but family caregivers can use a variety of tools, such as communication boards, to make interaction less stressful. Means of communication are crucial because they allow seniors to inform their caregivers when they’re hungry, in pain, tired, and need to use the restroom. Here are some tips you can take advantage of when using communications boards for your elderly loved one after a stroke.

Go Over the Instructions

Your loved one’s brain has likely experienced significant damage, so you can’t assume he or she will begin using the communication board with ease. In addition to diminished speaking skills, the abilities to comprehend information and make rational decisions may be altered. Trying out the board while your loved one is watching can make the tool more helpful. Point to the photos and other images when talking to give your loved one an idea of what needs to be done. For example, you could ask “Do you have to use the bathroom?” while pointing to a photo of a toilet.

An experienced professional caregiver can often provide tips for communicating with senior stroke survivors. 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 elderly home care. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Use Colors to Represent Emotions

Explaining thoughts and feelings can be difficult for stroke survivors in the early stages of recovery, so you’ll need to offer options when using communication boards. For example, you can use the color blue to represent when your loved one is feeling sad and red if he or she needs immediate assistance. Green could represent positivity and let you know your loved one is doing well. When you ask how your loved one is feeling at the moment, he or she can use the colors to give you insight into his or her mood, physical health, and emotional wellbeing. These codes can help you determine what course of action should be taken, such as moving your loved one to a more comfortable position or making a phone call to the doctor for medical assistance.

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 homecare services. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably. Senior Stride Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs.

Add an Emergency Contact Section

Even if your loved one owns a phone that allows him or her to push buttons to contact family and friends, he or she may still have difficulty associating names with the correct people. The communication board should have a list of names and each person’s relationship to your loved one. Make sure there’s plenty of space between names to reduce confusion. Some caregivers add an image of each person listed next to an emergency contact, which makes reaching out to those individuals easier for stroke survivors.

Make All Boards Accessible

Promote the usage of the board at all times, which means keeping the tool nearby. If your parent moves to another room, the communication board should move to that room if he or she plans to spend a significant amount of time in the area. The more your loved one utilizes the board, the higher the odds of a speedy recovery. Constant access to the board may also help your loved one feel safe and secure and give you peace of mind.

Having a caregiver close by can give your loved one peace of mind while he or she recovers from a stroke. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. Senior Stride Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at 920-717-1767 today.

Senior stroke survivors with diabetes face numerous dietary challenges. The combination of neurological deficits, such as chewing and swallowing difficulties, and unstable blood glucose levels can make planning healthy meals challenging. Here are five nutritious foods for elderly stroke survivors with diabetes.

1. Salmon

Fresh fish such as salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon regulates blood glucose levels, and it can also reduce the risk for a second stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids and fish oils decrease platelet aggregation. While eating large amounts of salmon or other fatty fish may slightly raise the risk for abnormal bleeding, it may lower the risk for blood clot formation and cerebral vascular accidents.

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. Oshkosh 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.

2. Low-Fat Cheese

Snacking on calcium-rich low-fat cheese can regulate blood glucose levels. Low-fat cheese is an excellent source of lean protein, which can enhance energy levels in stroke survivors and reduce the risk of muscle wasting in those who have limited mobility because of hemiparesis or hemiplegia. Hemiparesis refers to one-sided weakness, while hemiplegia refers to one-sided paralysis. Both of these conditions are common in stroke survivors.

3. Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re easy to chew and swallow for seniors with neurological problems related to strokes. Consuming steamed vegetables may also reduce choking risks associated with raw vegetables. Vegetables, steamed or otherwise, are integral components of the diabetic exchange diet, the most common therapeutic diet recommended for those with unstable blood sugar levels.

Dietary issues can make caring for a loved one after a stroke increasingly challenging. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care 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.

4. Almonds

High in magnesium, almonds are an excellent food choice for elderly stroke survivors with diabetes. Magnesium lowers the risk for cardiac arrhythmia, which is often higher in stroke survivors and diabetics. Consuming a handful of almonds boosts energy levels and can stave off a hypoglycemic episode. If your loved one is unable to chew or swallow almonds, grinding them in a blender or food processor is a great alternative. Ground almonds can be sprinkled over oatmeal, fruit, and salads, and in addition to reducing arrhythmia risk, almonds may lower elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

5. Oranges

Oranges are rich in potassium, which promotes optimal circulation while keeping hypertension at bay. They also have a mild diuretic effect, which helps with managing ankle edema, a condition that isn’t uncommon in stroke survivors and diabetics. Also high in vitamin C, oranges can reduce free radical damage caused by elevated blood sugar levels. If your loved one is unable to consume oranges because of their roughage content, orange juice is an acceptable alternative. Make sure you only offer unsweetened orange juice or juice without added sugar so blood glucose levels don’t spike to dangerous levels.

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted homecare provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call 920-717-1767 today.

Both genders are affected by strokes, but the symptoms manifest in different ways. Risk factors and symptoms are gender-specific, and people susceptible to strokes need to know what to watch out for. Here are some of the most common risk factors and signs of strokes in men and women. 

Common Risk Factors

There are many risk factors both genders have in common. These include diabetes, smoking, and poor dietary habits. Smoking damages the cardiovascular system due to the carbon monoxide and nicotine chemicals found in cigarettes. As diabetes is linked to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, it can also pave the way for strokes to occur. Dietary habits are also an essential risk factor. Foods containing trans fat, cholesterol, and saturated fat make strokes more likely. Both men and women need to watch out for these risk factors to minimize their chance of a stroke. 

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 home care. Oshkosh families trust in Senior Stride Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Women: Risk Factors

For women, elevated estrogen levels can also be a cause for concern. There are several medications and conditions that can raise estrogen levels in the body, like hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, and pregnancy. Estrogen is also a coagulant, which means it can cause blood clots when there’s too much of it in the body. 

Women: Signs of Stroke

There are several stroke signs women should look out for. Pre-stroke, women may be affected by behavioral changes, hallucinations, or hiccups. They may feel nauseous, agitated, or lose consciousness. Seizures are another common symptom, and they’re often accompanied by dizziness and sudden headaches. 

Men: Risk Factors

Most people are familiar with the genetic and lifestyle-based risk factors for strokes. For men, some risk factors are geographic in nature. Men who live in the Southeastern states like the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi are at greater risk for strokes. The reasons behind this correlation are unclear, but some scientists believe it’s due to local diets. Many of these states specialize in high-fat foods that increase cholesterol levels, clog the arteries, and leave men at risk for strokes. 

If your aging loved one is managing a serious illness and needs help accomplishing everyday tasks, consider hiring a caregiver. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Oshkosh, WI, respite care experts from Senior Stride Home Care are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Men: Signs of Stroke

Signs of strokes in men tend to be more commonly known than those for women. One of the most common signs is arm weakness. Worried caregivers should ask the senior to raise his arms and check whether one arm drifts downward of its own volition. Another common sign is sudden difficulty with speech. This could manifest itself via slurred words or an inability to repeat simple phrases. To check your senior loved one’s speech abilities, ask him to repeat a short sentence. If he can’t, it may be a sign of stroke. Face drooping is the third common sign of stroke in men. Face numbness or drooping usually affects one side of the face. Caregivers should ask the senior to smile. If the smile is lopsided, he may be having a stroke. 

When caregivers notice male or female seniors exhibiting the above symptoms, they shouldn’t hesitate to call 911.

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. Oshkosh, WI, live-in home 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 Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 to hire a dedicated caregiver for your elderly loved one.