Stroke: support solutions to improve independence
What is a stroke
A stroke is a sudden interruption of blood flow to a part of the brain. This causes neurons to not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to neurological damage within minutes. It is also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or cerebrovascular disease.
The consequences can affect mobility, balance, strength, speech, vision, or even cognitive functions, depending on the area of the brain affected. Its impact is highly variable: some people recover much of their independence, while others may require ongoing support.
At Gracare, we support people who have suffered a stroke with mobility solutions, positioning systems, and assistive products that facilitate rehabilitation and improve their quality of life.
Types of Stroke
Ischemic stroke
It is the most common type, accounting for around 80% of cases. It occurs when a brain artery becomes blocked and blood flow cannot properly reach a region of the brain.
This blockage is usually caused by:
- Thrombi formed within the blood vessel itself.
- Emboli that travel from another part of the body (for example, from the heart in cases of atrial fibrillation).
When blood does not reach the brain, brain cells begin to be damaged due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients, which can affect functions such as strength, balance, mobility, or speech.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing internal bleeding. Blood accumulates in or around brain tissue, creating pressure and damaging the affected area.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure, the most common cause.
- Cerebral aneurysms.
- Vascular malformations.
- Trauma or blood clotting disorders.
This type of stroke usually has a more sudden onset and can cause severe symptoms such as intense headache, loss of consciousness, neurological disturbances, or significant motor deficits.
Main symptoms of stroke
Mild impairment
The aftereffects are subtle but may influence daily tasks, especially those requiring precision or endurance.
Common consequences:
- Mild loss of strength or coordination on one side of the body.
- Difficulty performing fine motor tasks (buttoning clothes, writing, handling small objects).
- Mild balance or stability problems when walking.
- Quick fatigue or cognitive tiredness.
- Mild speech alterations or reduced verbal fluency.
- Minor difficulty concentrating or maintaining attention.
Functional impact:
The person usually maintains independence, but with increased effort and a higher risk of falls or fatigue in daily activities.
Moderate impairment
The aftereffects are more evident and directly affect mobility, communication, or personal independence.
Common consequences:
- More pronounced hemiparesis (significant weakness in the arm and leg on the same side).
- Muscle spasticity or stiffness that makes natural movement difficult.
- More frequent balance disturbances.
- Gait problems: short steps, dragging of the leg, instability.
- More significant speech impairments (aphasia or dysarthria).
- Difficulties with memory, planning, and problem-solving.
- Emotional changes (irritability, depression, anxiety).
- Reduced physical endurance and need for frequent rest.
Functional impact:
The person may require walking aids, support devices, home adaptations, or partial supervision.
Severe impairment
The aftereffects are significant and require a high level of support, rehabilitation, and specialized devices.
Common consequences:
- Complete paralysis of one side of the body (hemiplegia).
- Severe spasticity or involuntary movements.
- Inability to walk without advanced support or need for a wheelchair.
- Loss of postural control in sitting, requiring body stabilization.
- Severe aphasia or major communication difficulties.
- Significant cognitive impairments affecting independence.
- Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) or risk of aspiration.
- Intense behavioral or emotional changes.
Functional impact:
Support is required for most basic activities, as well as positioning products, advanced seating systems, orthoses, transfer aids, and regular supervision.
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Useful links
References
- Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS). (s.f.). Stroke.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Stroke: Symptoms, types and treatment.
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). (s. f.). Stroke Information Page.
- European Stroke Organization (ESO). (s. f.). Guidelines & Educational Resources.
- Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE). (s. f.). Life after stroke resources.
- Sociedad Española de Neurología (SEN). (2023). Guías oficiales y material informativo sobre Ictus.
- Federación Española de Ictus (FEI). (s. f.). Información para pacientes y familias.
- Sociedad Española de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación (SERMEF). (s. f.). Rehabilitación del ictus: recursos y guías.
- Ministerio de Sanidad de España. (2024). Documentos y guías clínicas del Sistema Nacional de Salud sobre ictus.
- Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron. (s. f.). Unidad de Ictus – Información para pacientes.
Public assistance
Soluciones de movilidad
Adaptación del hogar
Sedestación y confort
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