How to spot signs of a stroke


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As a provider of senior care services, it’s imperative that you’re prepared for an emergency. While your clients may still be relatively independent, they might be at risk for falls or other issues, such as stroke. The likelihood increases with age, especially if there are other factors at play.

Stroke can vary in severity, but they are a dangerous occurrence, so it’s necessary that you understand the different signs of a stroke. Symptoms occur suddenly, with little to no warning, and include:

    • Confusion
    • Vision problems in one or both eyes
    • Severe headache with seemingly no cause
    • Numbness on one side of the body
    • Problems speaking

It’s also helpful to know the acronym FAST:

Face: Have your client smile and look for one side of the face to droop.
Arms: Ask your client to lift both their arms to see if one falls down.
Speech: Have the senior repeat an easy phrase to you and listen for slurred or strange-sounding speech.
Time: If any of these are problematic, call 911.

The sooner a stroke can be treated, the smaller the chance of severe and permanent damage. You want to make sure your clients get treatment within the first three hours of witnessing the signs of a stroke.