Stroke awareness and education can play an important role in helping individuals recognize warning signs, understand risk factors and know where to turn for support during recovery.
Over the past several months, O’Neill Healthcare has hosted community educational presentations focused on stroke prevention, awareness and recovery. These programs have provided older adults, families and community members with information about reducing stroke risk, recognizing symptoms and understanding what recovery can look like following a stroke.
As part of these efforts, O’Neill Healthcare partnered with the Cleveland Clinic for a community presentation featuring Dr. Sheumi Man and the Cleveland Clinic Stroke Community Outreach program, who shared valuable insight into stroke awareness and prevention. Bringing clinical experts and community healthcare professionals together allows us to provide our community with trusted information and resources that can help support better health outcomes.
Understanding Stroke
A stroke can happen suddenly and requires immediate medical attention. Risk factors can include high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and a previous stroke or TIA. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, poor diet and excessive alcohol use can also increase risk.
Recognizing the warning signs is equally important. B.E. F.A.S.T. provides an easy way to remember some of the most common signs of stroke, including sudden balance problems, vision changes, facial drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulties. The most important step is T — Time to call 911.
The Importance of Stroke Recovery
Recovery after a stroke looks different for every individual. Some people may experience weakness, difficulty walking, balance challenges, communication or cognitive changes, swallowing difficulties or difficulty completing everyday activities. Rehabilitation can play an important role in helping individuals regain function, independence and quality of life.
Jen Harkness, Director of Network Services at O’Neill Healthcare, was a featured speaker during one of our recent educational programs and discussed the rehabilitation process following a stroke. Physical, occupational and speech therapy each address different aspects of recovery—from mobility and strength to daily activities, communication, cognition and swallowing.
Stroke recovery is also about more than physical progress. For older adults especially, a stroke can create sudden changes in independence and affect emotional and social well-being. A collaborative rehabilitation approach can help individuals work toward returning to the activities and routines that are meaningful to them. O’Neill Healthcare therapy teams, physicians, and care teams all work together when promoting stroke recovery.
How O’Neill Healthcare Supports Stroke Prevention & Recovery
Richard O’Neill, LNHA, Director of Business Development at O’Neill Healthcare, spoke about the role O’Neill Healthcare’s staff, services and communities can play in supporting individuals throughout the stroke recovery journey—and in helping reduce risks that can contribute to serious health events.
O’Neill Healthcare’s skilled nursing and rehabilitation services include 24/7 nursing care and therapy services available seven days a week, along with clinical resources such as cardiac care support, in-house EKGs, laboratory services, virtual neurology appointments, dietitian support, hydration programs and regular vital-sign monitoring. Our communities are also designed with safety and independence in mind, including features such as walk-in showers, wide hallways, enhanced lighting and reduced trip hazards.
At O’Neill Healthcare, we understand that stroke recovery is a team effort. Our goal is to support individuals and their families through every stage of the healthcare journey—from skilled rehabilitation following a hospital stay to ongoing care and support when needed.
Continuing the Conversation
We are proud to continue partnering with healthcare professionals and organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic, to bring meaningful health education to our local communities.
Be sure to check our rehabilitation webpage for additional stroke resources and educational information designed to help you recognize the signs, understand your risk and support recovery.
For more information on O’Neill Healthcare and our services please call (440) 808-5500.
This article is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you believe you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of a stroke, call 911 immediately.
