Stroke in Elderly: Causes, Signs & Prevention

Stroke in Elderly: Causes, Signs & Prevention

Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood flow to any part of the brain is disrupted. This prevents brain cells from receiving oxygen and nutrients, causing severe damage or death in the affected individual. Stroke is one of the major causes of disability among elders, with most cases reported in over-65 population. With its sudden onset and a prolonged recovery period, stroke survivors undergo many challenges in life, more so if you are elderly. Read on to learn more about stroke in elderly.

Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood flow to any part of the brain is disrupted. This prevents brain cells from receiving oxygen and nutrients, causing severe damage or death in the affected individual. Stroke is one of the major causes of disability among elders, with most cases reported in over-65 population. With its sudden onset and a prolonged recovery period, stroke survivors undergo many challenges in life, more so if you are elderly. Read on to learn more about stroke in elderly.

Are Elderly More At Risk of Stroke?

Yes, elderly individuals are at a significantly higher risk of stroke compared to younger people because:

1. As we age, blood vessels naturally become stiffer and narrower, making it easier for blockages or ruptures to occur.

2. Major stoke risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, atrial fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder), and high cholesterol are more common in older adults.

3. Lifestyle habits such as poor diet, smoking and alcohol consumption, inactivity, or unmanaged medical conditions add up and increase stroke risk.

More strokes occur in people- over age 65, and the risk doubles every decade after age 55.