Strokes are one of the most debilitating health conditions that seniors can face, but medical science has come a long way over the last few years. For example, a drug called rtPA can basically stop a stroke from occurring before any damage is done. This drug works by breaking up the clots that are behind ischemic strokes, restoring oxygenated blood flow to the brain.
The speed with which this drug is administered matters. Study after study has shown that the greater the amount of time that passes between the start of the stroke and treatment had a large influence on whether that person makes a full recovery from any disability that may occur.
In fact, a new study has revealed that when working closely with a pharmacist who can dispense medication immediately, rtPA can be given on an average of 23 minutes earlier. With a disease where every minute counts, 23 minutes can sometimes be the difference between life and death. At the very least, faster treatment is helping patients live better lives by giving them a greater chance at a recovery free of permanent disability. Although some disabilities can be overcome, this isn’t always the case in the aftermath of a stroke.
For those that suffer from a stroke, it had been said that there is a magic window of two hours. If treatment is given within two hours of the onset of a stroke, there is a good chance that a full recovery will occur. If treatment occurs after, permanent disability may occur. In these cases, Senior care becomes a necessity. Someone who is unable to get around and navigate daily life needs the assistance of a caregiver. It can be a professional caregiver or an unpaid family member, but help is needed in some degree.
Senior care comes in a variety of different forms, and the one that is right for your loved one will depend on their needs and the family’s situation. For those that just need some assistance getting through the day, in-home care tends to be the best choice. It keeps them in their home, there is a trained caregiver with them, and it is low in cost. Other types of care may be necessary for other sets of needs, though. For example, if the stroke has made it so medical care is needed frequently, a nursing home might be the best choice. Each situation needs to be addressed on a case by case basis.
Who knows what future medical care will look like for someone who suffers from a stroke? Today, we know that quick treatment can not just save lives, but can improve the quality of life for someone indefinitely after they have a stroke. This is good to know for our elderly loved ones, especially those that are at a higher risk of cardiovascular illness. No treatment is foolproof, but this is certainly a big step forward when it comes to helping our loved ones who might be suffering from a stroke.
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