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At GoodOaks Homecare, we’re here to help you not only spot the signs of a stroke but also support your loved one throughout their recovery journey.
According to the Stroke Association “Every day in May, 240 people will wake up to the life-changing impact of a stroke.”
Understanding a Stroke
A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, either due to a blockage (Ischaemic stroke) or a bleed (Haemorrhagic stroke).
- An Ischaemic stroke: An Ischaemic stroke happens when a blood clot, or other blockage, cuts off the blood supply to your brain, killing brain cells. . This is the most common type of stroke. Damage to brain cells can affect how the body works. It can also change how you think, feel and communicate.
- A Haemorrhagic stroke: Haemorrhagic stroke is when you have bleeding in or around the brain. This can damage brain cells. Damage to brain cells can affect how the body works. It can also change how you think, communicate and feel.
Without prompt medical treatment, brain cells begin to die, which can result in long-term disability or even death. It can happen to anyone, including children, so it’s really important to understand and know the signs.
A stroke can happen suddenly and to anyone, regardless of age. Although the risk increases as we get older, strokes can also affect younger adults and children. This is why knowing the warning signs is so important.
Remembering FAST – Face, Arms, Speech, Time – can help you recognise some of the most common signs and know when it’s time to act.
Know the FAST signs
Recognising the early symptoms of a stroke is crucial. Use the acronym FAST to remember the warning signs:
- Face: Has the person’s face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech: Is their speech slurred or garbled?
- Time: Time to call 999 immediately.
Other possible symptoms can include sudden weakness or numbness, changes to vision, confusion, dizziness, difficulty understanding what people are saying, or a sudden severe headache.
What to do if you suspect a stroke
If you notice any of these symptoms:
- Call 999 immediately – do not wait or assume the person will get better on their own.
- Keep the person safe and comfortable while you wait for emergency services.
- Note the time the symptoms started, as this information is critical for hospital staff.
Don’t attempt to give food, drink, or medication unless instructed by a medical professional.
The Stroke Association can provide lots of helpful information and resources to individuals and families who may have been affected by a stroke.
After-stroke care at GoodOaks
Recovering from a stroke can be a long and challenging process. That’s where GoodOaks Homecare comes in. Our specially trained care professionals provide compassionate, personalised support tailored to the unique needs of each stroke survivor.
Our after-stroke care includes:
- Personal care: Help with washing, dressing, toileting, and mobility.
- Medication support: Ensuring prescriptions are taken correctly and on time.
- Meal preparation: Nutritious, stroke-appropriate meals to aid recovery.
- Physiotherapy support: Encouraging and assisting with prescribed exercises.
- Cognitive and emotional support: Helping clients rebuild confidence and mental wellbeing.
- Companionship and respite for families: Providing peace of mind and a break for loved ones.
We work closely with families, GPs, physiotherapists, and stroke specialists to deliver a consistent and coordinated care plan that evolves as recovery progresses.
Why choose GoodOaks for after-stroke care?
At GoodOaks Homecare, we believe in delivering care with dignity, compassion, and respect. Our after-stroke care services are designed to promote independence while ensuring safety and comfort at home – where most people feel happiest.
Being able to recover in familiar surroundings can provide comfort and stability during what can be a significant period of change. We work alongside individuals and their families to provide care that fits around existing routines and adapts as needs change, helping people regain confidence and maintain their quality of life at home.
For more information, please contact us HERE.
