5 Tips to Help Seniors Reduce the Risk of Strokes

By 9  am on

Tips for Seniors To Reduce Their Stroke Risk in Victoria, BC

A stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, can impair cognition and mobility in aging adults. Fortunately, this health condition is preventable. Victoria elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

These five tips can help significantly lower your loved one’s chances of having a stroke.

1. Reduce Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the main cause of strokes because it weakens blood vessels until they break. Your loved one should try to keep his or her blood pressure under 140/90, or under the level advised by a doctor. Reducing sodium intake, eating fiber, exercising, and taking blood pressure medications can help seniors manage their blood pressure. 

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight puts more strain on the blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke. Obesity can also cause high blood pressure and diabetes, which further raises a person’s chance of a stroke. Doctors recommend seniors keep their BMI under 25.

3. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent strokes, as it helps seniors reduce their blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and manage diabetes. It also helps strengthen the circulatory system and minimize blood clotting. Seniors who face difficulty in exercising can benefit from a slow walk, light swim, or gentle calisthenics. 

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Victoria 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 in professional live-in caregivers to enhance his or her quality of life.

4. Don’t Smoke or Drink

Drinking more than two glasses of alcohol a day can increase the risk of stroke. Smoking causes clots to form because it thickens the blood and leads to plaque buildup in arteries. Excessive alcohol consumption can burst blood vessels, while heavy smoking increases the risk of strokes caused by blood clots. Therefore, it is best for seniors to stop smoking entirely and limit drinks to no more than one serving of alcohol per day.

5. Choose a Healthy Diet

An unhealthy diet leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, causing clots and weakened blood vessel walls. Doctors recommend aging adults cut down on saturated fat and red meat. Instead of eating processed foods or fatty meats, seniors should eat more fruits, vegetables, fish, grains, nuts, and low-fat dairy. Olive oil, avocados, salmon, and other foods rich in unsaturated fats help maintain heart health and prevent strokes.

Senior stroke survivors can benefit greatly from receiving professional in-home stroke care. Victoria, BC, Home Care Assistance is committed to helping seniors and their families manage the various challenges following a stroke. To learn about our high-quality stroke care plans, get in touch with one of our professional Care Managers at (250) 592-4881 today.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOG

    Request Free Information or
    Schedule a Free in-Home Consultation