According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 795,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke each year. Unfortunately, 140,000 of them die. Many of the risk factors for stroke are things that can be changed by leading a healthier lifestyle. While most people are aware of common risk factors, like high blood pressure, there are some risk factors that aren’t as well known, such as those discussed below.
Poor Sleep Habits
Studies show that people who don’t get enough sleep at night are at an increased risk for stroke. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama found that getting six or less hours of sleep per night on a consistent basis are more likely to have a stroke than people who get seven to eight hours per night. However, getting more sleep than that regularly can also increase risk. Therefore, sticking to a regular daily schedule of seven or eight hours of sleep is what older adults should be aiming for.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a risk factor for stroke because people who have it often have high blood pressure, too. They are also more likely to carry excess weight, which is also a risk factor for stroke. In addition, diabetes can harm blood vessels.
Socioeconomics
The American Heart Association says that people with lower incomes have strokes more often than people with higher incomes. One reason, they say, is that obesity and smoking seem to be more prevalent among this socioeconomic class. Another reason may be that they do not have access to good health care because of costs.
Long-Term Antibiotic Usage
Research indicates that people who use antibiotics for two or more months are at a higher risk for stroke. They believe the increased risk occurs because antibiotics affect the good bacteria in the gut, which can cause inflammation and cause blood vessels to become narrower. To prevent these dangerous changes, experts suggest eating foods that support good bacteria, like yogurt and other fermented foods.
Senior care can help older adults to reduce changeable stroke risks and manage health conditions that increase risks. For example, a senior care provider can assist with diabetes management by reminding older adults when it is time to take medications and check blood sugar. A senior care provider can also prepare balanced meals that manage blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and encourage weight loss by using healthy, low-calorie ingredients.
Sources
https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/cardiovascular-risk-factors.html?intcmp=AE-HP-BB-LL4
https://www.webmd.com/stroke/guide/stroke-causes-risks#1
https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/stroke-risk-factors/additional-factors-that-may-be-linked-to-higher-stroke-risks
https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm
If you or an aging loved one is considering senior care in Cherry Hills, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare Denver. Call today: (303) 756-9322.
