Did you know, almost 30,000 Australians experienced stroke for the first time in their lives in 2020, according to Stroke Foundation, 2020? That’s about one stroke every 19 minutes!
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. There are two common types of strokes:
- Ischaemic Stroke (is-key-mick): This type happens when a blood clot or plaque blocks an artery.
- Haemorrhagic Stroke (hemm-orr-ragic): This type happens when an artery in the brain breaks or bursts.
The after effects of a stroke depend on where it happens in the brain and how big it is. Here are some common effects people might experience:
- Learned Non-Use: Sometimes, people stop using a muscle or muscle group and rely on their “good side” instead.
- Spasticity: Limbs might become stiff or painful, making it hard to move. This can affect the neck, arms or legs.
- Speech Problems: Some people might have trouble speaking because the stroke affects the parts of the brain that control the jaw, lips and tongue.
Strokes can also affect emotions and personality. It’s common for stroke survivors to feel irritable, forgetful or confused. They might also experience fear, frustration, anger, sadness, anxiety or depression.
Today, according to Stroke Foundation, 2020, over 445,000 Australians live with the effects of a stroke. This is why long-term support is so important.
Community Support Workers can assist with everyday tasks like shopping, cooking and taking medication. They can also provide emotional support, like chatting on the phone, helping fill out forms or assisting with communication with health care providers. Support Workers and services are available to participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The NDIS supports Australians under 65 who have a permanent disability, including those caused by a stroke. The NDIS can fund services such as Assistance with Daily Life to assist with the unique needs of individuals with a disability. If you or someone you know has had a stroke and needs help, the NDIS might be able to provide the support you need.
Living with the effects of a stroke is challenging, but with the right support, stroke survivors can live ‘a better now’.
If you want to learn more about the NDIS or how Momentum Collective can support, visit our website, call 1300 900 091 to chat to our friendly staff or talk to your Support Coordinator.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, and pay respect to Ancestors, Elders both past, present and the emerging Jarjums.
