Stroke Awareness Month is a time to learn the facts about stroke, understand its causes, and build awareness of its warning signs to facilitate faster intervention—which is strongly correlated with better patient outcomes.

While a stroke is an acute medical crisis, it is often the beginning of a longer journey—one that requires understanding, support, and resources for recovery. This month isn’t just about learning the warning signs and risk factors—it’s also about equipping ourselves to support loved ones in the days, weeks, and months that follow. Let’s dive into what you need to know, from prevention to life after stroke.

Understanding Stroke: The Basics

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of stroke:

• Ischemic Stroke: The most common type, caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain (about 87% of all strokes).

• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding and pressure on brain tissue.

Strokes are a leading cause of long-term disability and the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke, and every 3.5 minutes, someone dies from one.

Recognizing the Signs: Every Second Counts

Immediate action is crucial during a stroke. Recognizing the symptoms and calling 911 can make the difference between recovery and lifelong disability. Use the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T. to remember the warning signs:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination

• Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes

• Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile

• Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm

• Speech: Slurred or strange speech

• Time: Time to call 911 immediately

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, act fast. Quick treatment can save lives and improve outcomes.

Who Is at Risk? Key Risk Factors

While stroke risk rises with age, strokes can happen at any age. In fact, nearly 38% of Americans hospitalized for stroke each year are under 65. Major risk factors include:

• High blood pressure (the leading cause)

• High cholesterol

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Obesity and physical inactivity

• Excessive alcohol use

• Family history of stroke

The good news? Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices and managing these risk factors.

Prevention: Steps You Can Take

You can significantly reduce your risk-and that of your loved ones-by making small, sustainable changes:

• Monitor Blood Pressure: Keep it in a healthy range with regular checkups and medication if prescribed.

• Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and foods low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.

• Stay Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

• Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases stroke risk.

• Limit Alcohol: Excessive drinking raises blood pressure and stroke risk.

• Know Your Numbers: Track cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight regularly.

Partnering with your healthcare provider is key to managing risk factors and staying on top of your health.

Life After Stroke: The Journey of Recovery

A stroke can alter the course of life in an instant—but with time, support, and determination, recovery is possible. The process often begins within 24 to 48 hours after stabilization, as early rehabilitation plays a key role in improving long-term outcomes. Recovery is highly individual and may involve physical, occupational, and speech therapies, emotional support, and ongoing adjustments to daily life.

Progress may be slow and nonlinear, but every step—no matter how small—is meaningful. Relearning how to walk, talk, or perform everyday tasks can be challenging, but with encouragement and a supportive environment, stroke survivors can regain independence and confidence.

Recovery doesn’t happen in a hospital alone. Much of the healing continues at home, where routines, relationships, and comfort all play a part in promoting resilience. For some families, this phase includes help from professional in-home supports, who can assist with daily tasks, mobility, or therapy reinforcement—offering structure and safety while loved ones focus on healing.

Supporting Family Caregivers

Family members often become key players in the recovery journey. From coordinating medical care and managing medications to providing emotional support and helping with everyday tasks, caregiving can be deeply rewarding—but also physically and emotionally taxing.

It’s important for caregivers to seek support for themselves, too. Whether that means joining a support group, taking breaks through respite services, or leaning on trusted professionals, prioritizing caregiver well-being is essential for sustaining care over the long term.

Building a Circle of Support

Stroke recovery is never a solo effort. A strong support network—whether made up of family, friends, professionals, or community groups—can make all the difference. Rehabilitation centers, support groups, adult day services, and online resources provide guidance, encouragement, and connection. At home, structured routines, gentle encouragement, and consistent help can create an environment where healing can flourish.

The Role of In-Home Care

For many families, in-home care is a lifeline during stroke recovery. Clara specializes in facilitating personalized home care, helping seniors regain independence in the comfort and familiarity of home with a caregiver they trust.

Here’s how professional home care makes a difference:

• Daily Living Support: Caregivers assist with activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility, reducing fall risks and promoting safety. See here for more on "What does a caregiver do?".

• Emotional Companionship: Recovering from a stroke can be isolating. Compassionate caregivers provide encouragement, companionship, and a listening ear, which are vital for mental health. They can also be a source of support for family members who are struggling with changes related to their loved one having had a stroke.

• Technology Integration: Telehealth and remote monitoring tools help track progress and connect with healthcare professionals, ensuring coordinated and accessible care.

Take Action This Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke Awareness Month is a reminder that knowledge saves lives. Learn the signs, know your risk, and take steps to protect yourself and your family. If you or a loved one is recovering from a stroke, remember: you’re not alone. Clara is here to help you navigate the journey with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support.

Ready to learn more about how Clara can facilitate in-home care for stroke recovery? Reach out today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you or your loved one live more independently and confidently at home.