Each year, roughly 795,000 people suffer from a stroke, making it the third leading cause of death in the United States. There are several controllable risk factors for stroke that include diabetes, obesity, and more. However, seniors are most at risk for stroke due to physical inactivity and preexisting conditions, such as hypertension.
As a provider of home health care in Springfield, Pennsylvania, we will share tips on how to reduce the risk of stroke in the elderly:
- Monitor cholesterol and blood pressure
High blood pressure is a large factor that contributes to stroke. It’s best to maintain a blood pressure of less than 120/80 for older adults to reduce their risk of stroke. Additionally, high cholesterol levels can clog arteries, which lead to a stroke. Seniors with a cholesterol level of 200 should speak to their physician on ways they can lower down their cholesterol levels. - Engage in physical exercise
Aside from respite care, a home care agency can also assist seniors with physical exercise. Regular exercise helps seniors maintain a healthy weight, which lowers down their blood pressure. A home care provider can also assist with meal planning so seniors can consume the ideal number of calories per day. - Learn to manage stress better
Seniors who smoke and drink are more at risk of developing a stroke. An agency specializing in home health care in Eastern Pennsylvania can work with their physician in introducing effective ways to manage stress. This includes exercising, starting a new hobby, or socializing with friends and family.
With your health in mind, ACCESS CARE HUMAN SERVICES LLC provides a variety of in-home services in Pennsylvania to meet your needs. For more information about our services, feel free to reach out to our staff today.