A stroke can be a life-altering event, often occurring without any prior warning. Known as a “brain attack,” it happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting vital oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die.

Understanding why strokes happen, who is most at risk, and how to respond can save lives and drastically improve recovery outcomes for your loved ones. At ABloom Home Care, we are dedicated to being your partner in navigating these health challenges, providing the support necessary for safety and recovery.

The “Why”: Understanding the Causes

There are two primary ways a stroke occurs, and understanding the difference is key to medical treatment:

• Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It happens when a blood clot or fatty deposits block the arteries supplying blood to the brain.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures. This is often caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure, over-treatment with blood thinners, or weak spots in blood vessel walls (aneurysms).
• TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack): Also known as a “mini-stroke,” this is a temporary blockage. While it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it is a massive warning sign that a full-scale stroke could be imminent.

Who Usually Gets a Stroke?

While a stroke can happen to anyone at any age, certain groups are at a higher statistical risk:

• Seniors: The risk of stroke doubles every decade after the age of 55.
• Individuals with High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is the single most significant controllable risk factor for stroke.
• People with Chronic Conditions: Those living with diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart diseases like Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) are at an increased risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smokers and those with a sedentary lifestyle or a diet high in processed salts and fats are significantly more vulnerable.

What to Do: The B.E. F.A.S.T. Method

When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. If you suspect a loved one is having a stroke, use this acronym to evaluate them immediately:

• B – Balance: Is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
• E – Eyes: Is there sudden blurred, double, or lost vision?
• F – Face: Ask them to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S – Speech: Is their speech slurred, or do they seem confused by simple questions?
• T – Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services (911) immediately. Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away.

How to Avoid a Stroke: Prevention is Key

The good news is that roughly 80% of strokes are preventable through proactive health management:

1. Manage Blood Pressure: Work with a doctor to keep blood pressure levels in a healthy range (ideally below 120/80 mmHg).
2. Heart-Healthy Diet: Shift toward a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while strictly limiting sodium intake.
3. Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (like brisk walking) per week.
4. Quit Smoking: Smoking thickens the blood and increases the likelihood of clot formation.
5. Monitor Chronic Conditions: If your loved one has an irregular heartbeat or diabetes, ensure they are following their doctor’s treatment plan strictly.

How ABloom Home Care Helps

Recovering from a stroke—or working to prevent one—is a journey that shouldn’t be taken alone. At ABloom Home Care, we provide the specialized support families need to manage these risks:

• Medication Reminders: Ensuring blood pressure and heart medications are taken accurately and on time.
• Nutritional Support: Preparing meals that follow low-sodium, heart-healthy guidelines.
• Mobility Assistance: Helping survivors with physical therapy exercises and ensuring they can move safely around the home to prevent falls.
• Constant Companionship: Having a professional caregiver present means there is always someone trained to spot the early warning signs of a TIA or stroke, ensuring immediate action is taken.

Your loved one’s health is our priority. By focusing on prevention and quick action, we can work together to reduce the impact of stroke and ensure a higher quality of life.

Schedule your free consultation with ABloom Home Care today!

References

• American Stroke Association. (2024). About Stroke. Retrieved from https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Stroke Signs and Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs_symptoms.htm
• Mayo Clinic. (2025). Stroke: Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113