Stroke patients: how to support them and adapt life after a stroke
It is one of the leading causes of death in Portugal. A stroke (AVC – Acidente Vascular Cerebral) profoundly transforms not only the life of the person who has had it but also that of their family. Not all strokes are the same, and the physical, emotional and social effects vary from person to person, but with support, adaptation and proper follow-up, it is possible to regain quality of life.
If you are looking for information on this subject, this article is for you.
Key points of the article
- What changes in the life of someone who has had a stroke
- Physical and emotional needs after a stroke
- Adapting the home and routines for greater independence
- Stroke symptoms: the 5 F's to memorise
- Factors that can cause a stroke
- How to act in the event of another stroke
- Types of stroke and their treatments
- Psychological support and the role of the family
- Real-life stories of overcoming the odds.
What changes in the life of someone who has had a stroke?
Adaptation is needed; having a stroke is a major change. Daily life becomes more challenging, whether because the people facing it may have some limitations in speech, movement, memory or vision. In some people these changes are temporary, and in others they may become permanent and require going through a process of relearning tasks such as: getting dressed, preparing meals or even communicating.
These changes go beyond the body: the family routine, social roles and even the person's self-confidence can be profoundly affected.
Physical and emotional needs after a stroke
Having a stroke can represent, for many people, a fresh start. The impact is profound, especially because it can involve the loss of some independence, which causes frustration and uncertainty. That is why it is essential to ensure ongoing support – not only physical, but also emotional. This support is indispensable so that the person can adapt to their new reality and gradually regain their quality of life.
Changes in mobility and communication
As mentioned, many stroke survivors lose strength on one side of the body (hemiparesis) or have difficulty walking, speaking or even eating. Physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy are essential to recover functions and promote independence. This rehabilitation should begin as early as possible.
Fatigue, anxiety and depression after a stroke
A frequent complaint is the constant fatigue that arises after small tasks. In addition, the risk of anxiety and depression increases, due to the loss of control over one's life. It is essential to ensure psychological support and create an environment that fosters self-esteem and wellbeing.
Adapting the home and routines for greater independence
Adapting the home and daily routines is essential to help the stroke patient settle into their new reality. These changes make the environment safer and more functional, promoting comfort, independence and wellbeing in everyday life.
Useful equipment and aids (e.g. a wheelchair)
Resources that can make all the difference in everyday life:
- Wheelchairs and walking frames
- Grab rails in the toilet and shower
- Shower chairs and adjustable beds
- Adapted utensils for eating and dressing
- Apps and devices to make communication easier.
Choosing the right equipment depends on each person's limitations and should be done with the support of health professionals.
Care with safety, hygiene and nutrition
Prevention is far better than cure. Especially when it comes to falls and infections. Regarding safety, some suggestions include: removing rugs, clearing hallways and improving lighting. Personal hygiene may require some help; the key thing is to respect the person's privacy. When it comes to nutrition, it is important to adapt the consistency of food or opt for specific diets to prevent further events.
Symptoms of a stroke
The 5 F's (a Portuguese mnemonic) are a simple, practical way of recognising the main symptoms of a stroke.
In Portuguese, they correspond to:
- F for Face (Face): a drooping face or an uneven smile
- F for Strength (Força): weakness on one side of the body
- F for Speech (Fala): confused, slurred speech
- F for a severe headache (Forte dor de cabeça): intense and sudden, with no apparent cause
- F for loss of vision (Falta de visão): in one or both eyes.
If you notice any of these signs, call 112 immediately. Time is crucial to minimise brain damage.
Factors that can cause a stroke
There are various factors that can trigger a stroke, from controllable factors to others that may not be controllable.
Controllable:
- High blood pressure (the main cause)
- Diabetes, high cholesterol
- Smoking, alcohol, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity
- Poor diet, stress, heart conditions
- Misuse of medication or drugs.
Non-controllable:
- Age: the risk increases significantly after the age of 55, but 25% of cases occur in younger people
- A family history of stroke or cardiovascular disease
- Sex: men have a higher risk, but women tend to have worse outcomes
- A previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).
How to act in the event of another stroke: signs and first aid
Being prepared and knowing how to identify the signs of another stroke can save lives. The main symptoms include:
- Sudden weakness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding
- Changes in vision
- Dizziness, loss of balance
- An intense, sudden headache.
If you suspect a stroke, call 112 immediately. Time is crucial: the sooner the person is seen, the greater the chances of recovery.
Types of stroke and treatments
Being prepared and knowing how to identify the signs of another stroke can save lives. The main symptoms include:
- Sudden weakness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding
- Changes in vision
- Dizziness, loss of balance
- An intense, sudden headache.
If you suspect a stroke, call 112 immediately. Time is crucial: the sooner the person is seen, the greater the chances of recovery.
Ischaemic stroke (a blockage of an artery – around 85% of cases) Emergency treatment:
Emergency treatment:
- Intravenous thrombolysis with drugs (e.g. alteplase) to dissolve the clot
- Mechanical thrombectomy to remove the clot via an endovascular approach (in specialist centres)
Long-term treatment:
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication (to prevent new clots)
- Intensive rehabilitation: physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy
- Control of risk factors (blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol).
Psychological and social support: the role of the family and community
The involvement of family, carers and friends is decisive for recovery. Knowing how to listen, respecting the person's pace and encouraging them without being patronising is important. Suggesting support groups, day centres and local associations helps to combat isolation and promote social integration.
The mental health of those who care must also be protected. Sharing responsibilities, seeking support and taking breaks is essential to avoid emotional burnout.
Testimonies from people who have had a stroke
"I was not in the least prepared for what would come next. Recovery is a long process, where even the simplest thing, like learning to sit up in bed, becomes a challenge." – Diana Ramos, aged 47.
This report brings together several testimonies from people who have had a stroke, faced the challenges of recovery and shared their stories of resilience and overcoming the odds.
Living with the effects of a stroke is possible with the right support
A stroke marks a before and after in anyone's life, but it does not define their future. With medical follow-up, adaptations to the environment and a solid support network, it is possible to regain independence and rediscover a new way of living. The key lies in empathy, patience and valuing every small achievement.
Important links on this topic:
The content of this blog is for information only. It does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a health professional.
Need non-emergency patient transport?
Ambula handles everything — with comfort, punctuality and care.
Book a transport