The risks of having a stroke are frightening to say the least. Because no one can predict if and when they are going to experience this life threatening illness, it is important to encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions to avoid it from occurring in the first place. If everyone does their best to take care of themselves, the risk might be lowered for them.
Stay Healthy
Staying healthy is important for everyone’s overall health. Eating a balanced diet is one of the easiest ways to stay in optimal health. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins in each meal and try to avoid processed or sugary foods. In addition to eating healthy, everyone needs to get their body moving. Even if abilities are limited, there are ways that everyone can get their heart pumping a little harder, even just by taking a brisk walk for 20 minutes a day; every little bit helps.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided. Smoking can increase the chances of a stroke occurring by as much as four-times as a non-smoker. Try to do everything possible to quit this habit as soon as possible. Alcohol should also be taken in moderation, if at all.
Monitor Diabetes
For those that have diabetes, it is important to keep the disease under control by consistently monitoring blood sugar levels. In addition, diabetics have a strong need to keep their weight in check to avoid increasing the risk of a stroke.
A home care provider can help your senior relatives stay on the right track. By assisting them with their grocery shopping and meal preparation, they can ensure that they eat healthy. In addition, they can monitor their habits and encourage exercise as often as possible to give your relative a fighting chance at preventing a stroke.
