According to MUSC Health, about 800,000 people in the U.S. get a stroke each year. Most cases occur in seniors, with about three in four (75%) affecting adults 65 and older.
While not all strokes result in fatal consequences, they can still lead to many other health complications, including those that adversely affect senior brain health.
So then, can a stroke cause memory loss? What other post-stroke memory issues and cognitive problems should seniors and their family members be aware of?
In this memory care guidance, the kind and caring team at Addington Place of Prairie Village, our beautiful and loving senior living community nestled in the quiet, peaceful, and charming city of Prairie Village, KS, has shared valuable insights into those questions. We'll also explore health tips for preventing this health condition and what our community can do to help, so please read on.
Yes. A stroke, which occurs due to a sudden disruption in the brain's blood supply, either due to a burst blood vessel (bleeding) or blockage (clot), can cause memory loss. The interruption:
The type and extent of memory loss caused by a stroke depend on the part damaged. For example, an article published in the National Library of Medicine (NLM) says that stroke can cause memory problems like:
It's also crucial to note that memory-related stroke and dementia signs aren't just similar. A stroke can also cause a type of dementia called "vascular dementia." Harvard Health Publishing says it can cause cognitive issues, such as:
Yes! Strokes are highly preventable. People of all ages, including seniors in Prairie Village, KS, can reduce their likelihood of suffering from a stroke because many risk factors associated with this condition are modifiable.
Here are some ways older adults can avoid strokes.
According to the U.S. CDC, many health conditions and unhealthy behaviors can make a person more likely to suffer from stroke:
Understanding such risk factors is crucial to preventing stroke, as knowledge empowers people to make better health and lifestyle choices.
Older adults in Prairie Village can reduce risk factors for stroke by engaging in regular, safe exercise routines.
Physical activities can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. They also benefit seniors with diabetes, as they can help improve blood sugar control and manage weight.
Engaging in 30-minute exercises at least five times weekly is a good starting point. Brisk walks, chair yoga, and tai chi can all help improve overall health.
Seniors should focus on a balanced, nutritious diet to help prevent strokes. A healthy diet can also help with weight loss and management.
Build meals and snacks around:
Older adults should also limit their intake of:
Too much alcohol is a recipe for stroke, as it can increase blood pressure. Therefore, drinking in moderation is a must. Men can enjoy up to two drinks daily, and women can have up to one.
Physical wellness, mental engagement, and cognitive support in aging are the pillars of the high-quality assisted living and memory care services we provide at Addington Place of Prairie Village. Here are some ways we help our residents with their everyday health and well-being.
Residents can rely on a team of highly experienced, kind, and caring care professionals in our assisted living and memory care campuses in Prairie Village, KS. We provide highly tailored personal care to our residents who need an extra hand with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as:
Stroke and memory-related problems can hinder older adults' ability to perform these tasks independently. So, our team provides them with the help they require if and when needed.
Furthermore, our care experts are on-site 24/7. Their round-the-clock presence helps ensure prompt response to resident concerns.
At Addington Place of Prairie Village, we employ an activities director who carefully plans daily activities and events for physical wellness, socialization, recreation, and cognitive stimulation. Residents are free to choose from various enriching experiences like:
We also have many community amenities that promote senior health, engagement, and well-being, such as our beautiful, well-maintained gardens and outdoor areas. Residents can relax, socialize, or exercise in these spaces while enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. There's also a well-stocked library and a wellness center on-site.
Addington Place of Prairie Village is proud to have a team of culinary experts adept at senior nutrition. They use only the freshest ingredients to whip up mouth-watering, nutritious, and well-balanced homestyle dishes daily. Our senior living community residents can enjoy these in our beautiful, inviting restaurant-style dining area with attentive tableside service.
As discussed in this guide, the answer to the question, "Can a stroke cause memory loss?" is yes, it can. It may even result in vascular dementia.
For those reasons, everyone, especially seniors, should do their best to minimize their stroke risk. Proper knowledge and making better health and lifestyle choices can all help.
If you're looking for assisted living or memory care in Prairie Village, KS, for your older loved one, Addington Place of Prairie Village is a premier choice. With our compassionate team and many on-site amenities and services, we can help your beloved family member age gracefully and healthily.
Call us today to schedule a tour of our community!