May is American Stroke Month. Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It is the 5th leading cause of death in the United States, and a leading cause of disability. Strokes are caused when a blood vessel bursts or is blocked, which leads to a lack of oxygen; thus, brain cells die. Although strokes are serious, 80 percent are preventable. At McLaren Homecare Group, we are committed to helping patients recover from stroke where they are most comfortable "“ at home.
McLaren Homecare Group's Stroke Care team focuses on restoring mobility, strength and other skills involved in daily activities. Designed to help stroke patients get better by improving their overall function through therapy, the goal of the program is to ensure a high quality of life for each individual stroke survivor. Our speech-language pathologists provide skilled therapy and home education programs to improve communication deficits caused by stroke. This includes cognitive impairments, expressive and receptive language disorders, motor speech disorders, and swallowing impairments. The McLaren Homecare Group Stroke Care team also includes physical and occupational therapists who teach advanced techniques specific to stroke recovery such as postural control, endurance exercises, gait training, and advanced balance techniques. McLaren Homecare Group is also committed to providing education about risk factors and how to prevent the onset of a stroke.
Identification of risk factors is key to prevention of stroke, and risk factors for stroke include race, age and genetics. Although these risk factors cannot be controlled, many risk factors can. Some ways to prevent stroke are to manage and control high blood pressure, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, maintain a healthy and balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, get at least 30 minutes of physical activity 3 to 5 days a week, and control high blood cholesterol.
For more information about the risk of stroke or speak to your primary care physician click here. To learn more about stroke care at McLaren Macomb, what this video.
For more on the McLaren Homecare Group Stroke Care program, or to make a referral, call (866) 323-5974.