The Caregiver's Hangout

11/02/2025

Lets Talk Post-stroke behavior changes:

Behavior changes are common and stem from the impact of a stroke on the brain, which controls emotions, behavior, and cognitive function. These changes can range from subtle shifts in personality to more pronounced and challenging behavioral alterations.

Common Behavioral and Emotional Changes:

Emotional Lability (Emotionalism):
This involves sudden and unpredictable mood swings, often characterized by excessive crying or laughter, sometimes in inappropriate situations. This can be distressing for the individual and those around them.

Depression:
Stroke survivors are at a higher risk of experiencing depression, characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Anxiety:
Increased anxiety can manifest as excessive worry, nervousness, or fear, impacting daily life and leading to avoidance of social situations or activities.

Irritability and Aggression:
Frustration and difficulty managing emotions can lead to increased irritability, anger outbursts, and potentially aggressive behavior.

Impulsivity:
Some stroke survivors may experience difficulty thinking before acting, leading to impulsive decisions and behaviors that can be unsafe or inappropriate.

Disinhibition:
This involves a loss of social awareness and restraint, leading to inappropriate comments, actions, or behaviors that may not be considered socially acceptable.

Changes in Social Interaction:
Difficulty reading social cues and understanding social expectations can lead to awkward or inappropriate interactions.

Cognitive Deficits:
Changes in cognitive abilities, such as memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and reduced concentration, can affect behavior and lead to frustration or confusion.

Loss of Motivation:
Stroke survivors may experience a lack of motivation or desire to engage in activities they previously enjoyed, leading to withdrawal and social isolation.

Changes in Personality:
Existing personality traits may become exaggerated or individuals may exhibit behaviors that are out of character for them.

As always I say get to know your post stroke survivor. And that's today's Stroke Tip from

05/05/2024

We recognize this month each year because for many people, stroke awareness can be truly life-saving – someone in the US suffers a stroke every 40 seconds. For these patients, timely treatment can mean the difference between successful recovery and long-term disability.

21/11/2023

To my fellow caregivers: Your dedication as a caregiver makes a significant impact on the lives you touch. Your compassion and strength are admirable. Take a moment for yourself, too you deserve it.

25/07/2023

Caregivers, please take time for you! If you're a caregiver drop 1 way you practice self-care.

24/07/2023

New to the caregiver life?! Here are a few tips for you. I know they may seem impossible right now but you will find your footing! You have a village ready to help. So come hang out with us! We got you!

24/07/2023

Take a moment to subscribe to my yt channel. To the few who have Thank you!

Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

23/07/2023

Quick Welcome to The Caregiver's Hangout YT video! Subscribe and share!
https://youtu.be/i15POOOT0Us

10/05/2023

Today let's talk some of deficits from having a stroke.

Aphasia

What causes aphasia?

Aphasia is caused by damage to one or more of the language areas of the brain. Most often, the cause of the brain injury is a stroke. A stroke occurs when a blood clot or a leaking or burst vessel cuts off blood flow to part of the brain. Brain cells die when they do not receive their normal supply of blood, which carries oxygen and important nutrients. Other causes of brain injury are severe blows to the head, brain tumors, gunshot wounds, brain infections, and progressive neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.

Some people with aphasia after a stroke are still able to speak but may struggle to "find the right word" when they're talking. They may also start forgetting words or using the wrong words when they talk.

The main treatment for aphasia involves treating the condition that causes it, as well as speech and language therapy. The person with aphasia relearns and practices language skills and learns to use other ways to communicate. Family members often participate in the process, helping the person communicate.

08/05/2023

Stroke Fact of the Day: Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. Do you know the signs???

05/05/2023

Stroke Fact of the day!
What puts men at risk for stroke?
Smoking damages blood vessels, which can cause a stroke. About 1 in 7 men smoke. ...
Overweight and obesity. Having overweight or obesity increases stroke risk. ...
Diabetes increases stroke risk because it can harm blood vessels in the brain. ...
Too much alcohol. ...
Not enough physical activity.

04/05/2023

STROKE FACT DAY 4:

Ischemic Stroke can affect the following:

Muscle weakness on the left side of the body
Vision problems, including problems seeing from the left side of each eye
Hearing problems
Sensory changes on the left side of the body
Problems with depth perception or directions
Problems with balance
A feeling of spinning when a person is still
Memory problems
Difficulty understanding, problem solving, and making decisions
Problems breathing
Problems chewing, swallowing, and speaking

Dennis had a right side Ischemic Stroke. His deficits were more cognitive than physical. He still is working on issues with aphasia. (Trouble recalling words or understanding what's spoken)

03/05/2023

Stroke Fact of the day.
High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke and is the main cause for increased risk of stroke among people with diabetes. Take your meds, avoid salty foods, and get moving!!!

Get your shirt here: https://www.creativehousenc.com/s/search?q=stroke