Understanding Stroke: Risks, Recovery, and the Role of Personal Alarms

Every 19 minutes, someone in Australia suffers a stroke. According to the Stroke Foundation, over 445,000 Australians are currently living with the lasting effects of this devastating condition. Unfortunately, stroke is one of the country’s leading causes of death—claiming more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer.

Surviving a stroke is a life-altering experience. It can significantly impact a person's independence, mobility, and overall quality of life. But while the challenges are real, there are ways to provide meaningful support and empower stroke survivors to navigate their recovery journey.

In this article, we take a closer look at the causes and risks of strokes, their profound effects on individuals, and practical strategies to assist stroke survivors. From understanding risk factors to exploring tools and support networks, we’re shedding light on how we can make life after a stroke safer and more manageable.

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Understanding Strokes: A Sudden Disruption

What causes strokes?

Strokes are caused by the interruption or reduction of blood flow to the brain, leading to brain cell damage due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients.

There are two main types of strokes:

• Ischemic stroke (clots): Caused by a blocked blood vessel. This is the most common type of stroke.
• Hemorrhagic stroke (bleeds): Triggered by a burst blood vessel that leaks blood. The leaking blood is like a bruise that injures part of the brain.

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Who is at risk of stroke?

Stroke can happen to anyone of any age, from children to the elderly, however, as we get older our risk increases. Men are at greater risk of stroke than women.
Some of the risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, being overweight, smoking, high cholesterol, a high intake of alcohol, and Type 2 diabetes.

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Can strokes be prevented?

Did you know that up to 80% of strokes can be prevented? Many of the risk factors are within our control and can be effectively managed by adopting healthier habits and staying vigilant with regular health check-ups. Simple yet powerful lifestyle changes—like staying physically active, choosing nutritious foods, and steering clear of smoking and excessive alcohol—can significantly lower your risk.

For instance, aiming for at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity per week is a great way to keep your body strong and heart healthy. Small steps today can make a big difference in protecting your wellbeing for the future.

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Signs of a stroke

The F.A.S.T. test is an easy way to remember and recognise signs of stroke. F.A.S.T. stands for Face, Arms, Speech and Time.

• Face: Check the persons face. Are they unable to smile? Has their mouth dropped?
• Arms: Can they lift both arms?
• Speech: Is their speech slurred? Can the person understand you?
• Time: Don't waste any time! Contact 000 immediately if you notice any of these early signs of a stroke.

While these are the main signs, other symptoms can include weakness or numbness down one side of your body, blurry vision or loss of sight, a sudden, severe headache and memory loss. These symptoms can pass after a few minutes but can indicate that a stroke is coming.

Remember, you must call for help immediately as soon as you see the signs of stroke!

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The Impact of Stroke on Survivors

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Post-Stroke Challenges

Physical Impairments:
‍Stroke survivors may face physical challenges, such as paralysis, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.

Communication Difficulties:
‍A stroke can affect a person's ability to speak, read, write, and understand language.

Emotional and Cognitive Changes:
‍Many survivors experience emotional changes like depression and anxiety, along with cognitive impairments affecting memory and decision-making.

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Strategies for Recovery

Supporting stroke survivors requires a combination of physical, emotional, and practical strategies to help them regain confidence, independence, and quality of life. Here are some practical approaches:

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1. Physical Rehabilitation

Regular physiotherapy can help stroke survivors regain mobility, strength, and coordination. Activities like walking, stretching, or tailored exercises can help rebuild physical abilities at their own pace.

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2. Mental Stimulation

Engage survivors in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, games, reading, or learning new skills to help with cognitive recovery and maintaining sharpness. Speech therapy can also be vital in rebuilding communication skills if affected by the stroke.

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3. A Safe Home Environment

Make the home a safer place by removing tripping hazards, installing handrails, improving lighting, and rearranging furniture for easier navigation. Consider assistive devices, such as walkers, grab bars, or a monitored personal alarm system, to reduce risks and provide peace of mind.

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4. Focus on Emotional Wellbeing

Provide emotional support by being a patient and understanding listener. Adjusting to life after a stroke can be overwhelming, and survivors may need reassurance. Participation in support groups where they can share experiences with others who understand their journey can assist their mental health when dealing with challenges.

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5. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Practical, achievable goals for everyday activities, such as dressing, cooking, or short walks makes progress easier and more achievable. Celebrate their progress, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and motivation.

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How can monitored personal alarms help

Monitored personal alarms provide a reliable safety net for stroke survivors and their carers. They offer rapid emergency support by professional responders who are trained in emergency protocols and know exactly what to do.

For stroke survivors, personal alarms ensure fast response at the press of a button, whether due to falls, mobility challenges, or medical issues. This quick response can be life-saving and helps survivors feel safer as they go about their daily activities. By providing this layer of protection, personal alarms empower individuals to regain their independence with confidence, removing the constant worry of being alone in case of an emergency.

For carers, these devices provide invaluable reassurance, knowing their loved ones have access to immediate help, day or night. This relieves the pressure of being the sole responder in a crisis and allows carers to take moments for themselves without constant concern. Monitored alarms also enhance safety by providing emergency responders with essential medical information, ensuring tailored and efficient care for stroke survivors when time is critical.

MePACS personal alarms offer 24/7 monitoring by our Australian-based professional operators. Our range of alarms are suitable for different lifestyles, budgets snd requirements, including features like automatic hard falls detection and GPS. As an approved NDIS provider, eligible participants can use NDIS funding to cover the cost of the alarm.

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Support for Stroke Survivors and carers

In Australia, there's a range of support services for stroke survivors and their carers to help them navigate recovery and maintain quality of life. Here are some key resources:

Stroke Foundation: Provides extensive support, including free advice through their StrokeLine 1800 787 653, online resources, and recovery webinars.

‍EnableMe: Connects stroke survivors and carers with a supportive online community and practical tools for recovery.

Stroke Association of Victoria: Peer support groups, recovery programs, and opportunities to connect with others who understand the challenges of life after a stroke.

Stroke Recovery Association NSW: Supporting survivors of Stroke, carers and their families

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)  Eligible stroke survivors can access funding for therapy, equipment, home modifications and personal alarms.

‍Carer Gateway: Emotional and practical support for carers.

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*Disclaimer: This information does not intend to replace advice from a qualified health professional. Please speak to your GP first about any health concerns.

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