World Stroke Day is October 29, a time to prepare for raising awareness among family and friends to the condition of stroke and how to prevent and manage it.
The World Stroke Campaign’s theme for 2016 is “Face the facts: Stroke is treatable. Lives can improve with better awareness, access, action.”
Many people are affected by stroke
The World Stroke Organization shows in this infographic that over 20 million people worldwide have been affected by stroke. It also emphasizes this year’s theme on treatment, pointing out that early detection and treatment in a specialized stroke unit increases the likelihood of a good outcome by 14 percent.
Early advanced treatment is one important factor in stroke treatment. Rehabilitation and home care after stroke is also another important factor in regaining as much ability as possible, as well as long-term health and prevention of a second stroke.
Improvement is possible
This year’s theme also focuses on the fact that “lives can improve.” As providers of a wide range of disability aids, we cannot overstate the importance of the potential for improvement in the lives of stroke survivors.
While many stroke survivors require extra help from family and friends or assistance from paid caregivers, remaining as physically independent as possible can lead to better overall health. Don’t think you have been defeated because you have had a stroke. There are many resources for stroke survivors to help them continue to lead a healthy and productive life.
Take advantage of available resources
Of course, consulting with your physician and other medical and rehabilitation experts is the first step. It is also a great idea to check out informational materials, such as books and videos, to help you understand ways of managing life after a stroke.
We also believe daily living aids are an important aspect not only to improving health but also to maintaining happiness. Many of our products are items that can help in those little everyday tasks that might seem insignificant at first but actually make all the difference.
However, you might also need more expensive equipment provided by medical providers, such as a power wheelchair or vehicle modification.
Whatever adaptations you need to make, big or small, managing the effects of stroke by staying informed and adapting your environment are the keys to remaining positive after a stroke.
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