Eldercare Resources

Knowing the symptoms of a stroke is key for caregivers, grandchildren, and the general public – because as I shared in my last post, a stroke can strike at any time.

This year the National Stroke Association will focus its efforts on educating the public to recognize stroke symptoms, and to Act F.A.S.T.


F = FACE     Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A = ARM     Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S = SPEECH     Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
T = TIME     If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call 9-1-1.


It has been reported that school age children are being taught about F.A.S.T. and several have saved their grandparents by calling 911.

April is Stroke Awareness month. Watch for upcoming news to help you promote stroke awareness and to recognize stroke symptoms within your own family. Or for more information, contact the National Stroke Association at www.stroke.org or call 1-800-STROKES (1-800-787-6537).  You can also ask your health care provider for more information and a referral to local resources.