At Karingal Green, we’re committed to the health and well-being of our residents, and National Stroke Week provides a vital opportunity to raise awareness about stroke prevention, recognition, and care. Strokes are a significant health concern, particularly for the elderly, which is why it’s so important to understand the signs so you know how to act swiftly.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can result in brain cells dying within minutes. For seniors, the risk of stroke increases due to factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. However, strokes can often be prevented by making certain lifestyle changes and with the use of timely medical intervention.
The key to reducing the impact of a stroke is early recognition and rapid response. Remembering the FAST acronym is a great tool for helping you identify the symptoms of stroke.
– Face: Check if one side of the face is drooping.
– Arms: See if the person can lift both arms.
– Speech: Listen for slurred or strange speech.
– Time: Act quickly and call emergency services if any of these symptoms are present.
Prevention also plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of stroke, which is why we take various measures to help mediate risks of stroke for our residents. These include:
–Healthy Diet: Our in-house dietitians ensure residents receive balanced, nutritious meals that help manage weight, cholesterol and blood pressure.
– Regular Exercise: Our Wellness Centre offers tailored exercise programs to keep residents physically active and healthy.
–Regular Health Check Ups: Routine medical check-ups help monitor and manage conditions that could increase the risk of stroke.
National Stroke Week is a critical reminder of the importance of stroke awareness, prevention and timely intervention. At Karingal Green, we are dedicated to providing the best care and support for our residents, ensuring they live healthy and fulfilling lives. By educating our community and implementing effective preventive measures, we can make a significant impact in reducing the risks and effects of strokes.
Join us in spreading awareness this National Stroke Week. Together, we can make a difference and save lives. Head to https://strokefoundation.org.au/what-we-do/prevention-programs/national-stroke-week for more information.