Stroke Survival At 95: Is It Possible?

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with age being a significant factor in long-term survival after a stroke. While strokes can occur at any age, the risk increases with age, and the likelihood of recovery decreases. For those aged 95, the chances of survival are slim, and the impact on their health and quality of life will be significant.

Age is a critical factor in stroke recovery, with older individuals facing higher mortality rates, poorer functional outcomes, and longer hospital stays.

The chances of a 95-year-old surviving a stroke depend on their overall health, the type of stroke, its severity, and the treatment used

The chances of a 95-year-old surviving a stroke are slim, but it is not impossible. Several factors influence a person's chances of survival, including their overall health, the type of stroke, its severity, and the treatment used.

Overall Health

A person's overall health is a crucial factor in their chances of surviving a stroke.

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the US and a leading cause of long-term disability

Strokes occur when something blocks the blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.

Stroke risk increases with age, but strokes can and do occur at any age. In 2014, 38% of people hospitalized for stroke were less than 65 years old. The risk of having a stroke also varies by race and ethnicity. For example, the risk of having a first stroke is nearly twice as high for non-Hispanic Black adults as for White adults.

The survival rate for stroke depends on several factors, including the type of stroke, its severity, the treatment used, the patient's age, and their overall health. Hemorrhagic strokes have a higher death rate than ischemic strokes, and age is a significant factor in long-term survival after a stroke. People age 85 and older have the highest death rate, with a risk of dying that is 13 times higher than that of people aged 65 to 74.

Quick treatment is critical for stroke patients. Patients who arrive at the emergency room within 3 hours of their first symptoms often have less disability three months after a stroke than those who receive delayed care. Recognizing and treating transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or mini-strokes, can also lower the risk of a major stroke.

Stroke survivors will likely need long-term physical, occupational, and speech therapy

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists help stroke patients with exercises that help them relearn physical movement and coordination. They work with patients to help them regain their physical strength and improve their balance and gait.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists help stroke survivors with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, eating, drinking, reading, and writing. They also recommend adaptive equipment and educate patients on how to use them properly.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapists help stroke patients who have difficulty speaking or understanding speech. They provide strategies and environmental adaptations to enhance communication effectiveness and maximize communication opportunities and participation for the stroke survivor.

Stroke survivors are at risk of having another stroke

Stroke survivors are at a heightened risk of having another stroke. Of the 795,000 strokes that occur in the United States each year, 185,000 are recurrent strokes. About one in four stroke survivors will have another stroke within the following five years.

Strokes caused by carotid artery blockages, hardening of the arteries in the brain, and untreated atrial fibrillation (a quivering or irregular heartbeat) are more likely to reoccur. However, the risk of having another stroke can be reduced by following the doctor's orders, taking medications correctly, and making necessary lifestyle changes. These changes include increasing physical activity, adopting a healthier diet, managing blood pressure, getting healthy sleep, and quitting smoking and vaping.

Even transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or "mini-strokes," should be taken seriously, as they often precede major strokes in the future. The chance of having another stroke within 90 days of a TIA is 17%, with the highest risk occurring during the first week.

Stroke survivors often suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues

Post-stroke depression is characterised by a range of symptoms, including depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, along with other symptoms such as weight loss, insomnia, psychomotor agitation, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, diminished concentration, and suicidal ideation. These symptoms must last for at least two weeks to be diagnosed as depression.

In addition to depression, stroke survivors may also experience anxiety, which is characterised by feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. Anxiety affects about 20% of stroke survivors. They may also experience apathy, which is characterised by a lack of motivation, concern, interest, and emotional response, resulting in a reduced initiative and interaction with their environment. Apathy can occur independently or as a symptom of depression or dementia, and it has been reported in 29-40% of stroke survivors.

The treatment for post-stroke mental health issues typically involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Antidepressant medication can help reduce depressive symptoms and improve functional recovery, while psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy, can provide additional support. Other non-pharmacological approaches, such as music, mindfulness, and physical exercise, may also be beneficial.

It is important to note that stroke survivors and their families should be educated about the potential impact of stroke on their mental health and given the opportunity to discuss their concerns at all stages of care. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Frequently asked questions