Many families are not prepared for the devastating effects of a stroke.
The phrase “Out of sight, out of mind” certainly applies to strokes.
Although it is one of the leading causes of long-term disability or death in the United States, most Americans are more concerned about car accidents.
Overlooking the dangers of a stroke can leave people more susceptible to becoming a victim of this medical emergency.
One of the risk factors for a stroke is hypertension.
Because high blood pressure can be undetected for years while damaging blood vessels in the brain, it is known as a silent killer.
Proactively managing blood pressure can help older adults reduce their risk of stroke.
People with hypertension can take action to prevent and prepare for the possibility of a stroke.
How is hypertension related to strokes?
When blood flow to the brain is disrupted, a stroke can occur.
Strokes from blockage of a blood vessel are called ischemic strokes.
Strokes from burst blood vessels are called hemorrhagic strokes.
The risk of blood vessel blockage or bursting is greater when high blood pressure is present.
High blood pressure weakens artery walls and increases the susceptibility for clot formation or rupture.
Even if blood pressure is only slightly elevated, the risk of stroke is doubled.
Yikes!
Because blood vessels grow more rigid with age, the cardiovascular system of older adults is more vulnerable to the effects of prolonged hypertension.
It is possible to have high blood pressure without noticing symptoms.
What can be done to counteract this reality?
Those aged 60 and older should prioritize regular physical screenings.
Early diagnosis of hypertension can often be controlled through lifestyle adjustments like regular exercise, sodium intake reduction, and other dietary adjustments.
Some people will also require medications to manage their blood pressure.
A general goal is for systolic pressure to remain under 130 mmHg.
In adults with additional risk factors like heart disease or diabetes, managing blood pressure is even more important.
Following a treatment plan can significantly reduce the risk of stroke.
Strokes can lead to sudden incapacity.
Having an estate plan in place, including a general durable power of attorney, an advance health care directive, and a fully funded revocable living trust, will enable trusted agents and fiduciaries to assume responsibility and act in a timely manner.
Loved ones will be able to manage financial and healthcare decisions without having to wait for the courts.
Because those who have suffered a stroke are often limited in their ability to communicate, these legal instruments prevent confusion or delays.
If you or a loved one is at risk of a stroke without an estate plan in place, you can request a consultation with our Overland Park law firm.
High blood pressure is the most common cause linked to strokes.
Because older adults have less flexible blood vessels, their bodies are more vulnerable to the effects of hypertension.
Having regular medical screenings with a physician can help in the early detection of high blood pressure.
With an early diagnosis, lifestyle changes and medications can be more effective at managing the condition.
An experienced estate planning attorney can help you prepare for the possibility of becoming incapacitated from a stroke by creating documents to allow loved ones to support you in the event of sudden incapacity.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice on any specific issue or problem. Nothing herein creates an attorney-client relationship between Harvest Law KC and the reader.
Reference: American Medical Association (Feb 9, 2024) "What Doctors Wish Patients Knew About the Deadly Risk of Stroke"
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