A transient ischemic attack is also referred to as a mini-stroke, and the symptoms often resolve quickly with proper treatment. However, many aging adults who experience these types of attacks have a higher risk of experiencing more serious strokes in the future. Therefore, family caregivers need to learn more about the issue, including what leads to the temporary lack of blood flow associated with mini-strokes. Below you’ll find some of the causes of transient ischemic attacks and what seniors can do to handle each issue.
1. Hypertension
High blood pressure can damage the arteries and cause them to tear or burst. When a blood clot caused by hypertension dislodges on its own or dissolves, it can lead to a mini-stroke. Seniors can prevent this health issue by monitoring their blood pressure regularly and making lifestyle choices that keep their blood pressure at a reasonable level. For instance, following a low-sodium diet, getting plenty of rest at night, and exercising three or four times per week can help seniors maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Toronto, ON, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
2. Blocked Blood Vessels
Aging leads to changes in the heart and blood vessels, but most of these changes can be counteracted to prevent mini-strokes. When older adults don’t follow healthy diets, fail to exercise, and are unable to manage stress, the main arteries from their hearts can thicken and become less flexible. As a result, their hearts need to work harder, and the risk of mini-strokes increases. Maintaining a healthy weight could help your loved one prevent blocked blood vessels and boost his or her cardiovascular health.
3. High Cholesterol
A buildup of fatty deposits in the brain is often the cause of a transient ischemic attack. These plaques impede blood flow in areas of the body that supply oxygen and other essential nutrients to the brain. However, maintaining low cholesterol levels can prevent the brief interruption of blood flow and stop the development of a clot. Your parent can lower his or her cholesterol by doing cardio exercises, such as walking and dancing. Some seniors take medication to lower their LDL cholesterol.
An in-home caregiver can help your loved one plan nutritious meals and exercise safely. Senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes causes pathologic changes in blood vessels that increase the odds of a transient ischemic attack. To manage diabetes, seniors need to eat heart-healthy foods and avoid high-calorie items, especially saturated fats. They should also exercise to manage their weight and glucose levels.
5. Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease narrows the blood vessels that carry oxygen from the heart to the brain. If your parent is living with this disease, he or she may not know because the symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages. However, seniors who give up smoking and drinking alcohol, limit salt consumption, exercise, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables can stave off the disease and lower their risk of mini-strokes.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Toronto elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (416) 488-8777 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.