Surviving and Recovering from a Stroke at 70: A Personal Journey

The life expectancy of a 70-year-old after having a stroke can vary significantly based on several factors including the type and severity of the stroke, the individual's overall health, the presence of other medical conditions, and the quality of post-stroke care and rehabilitation they receive. On average, studies suggest that many people who survive a stroke may live for several years afterward.

Factors Influencing Stroke Survival and Recovery

Type of Stroke: Ischemic strokes, caused by a blockage in the blood vessels, tend to have different outcomes compared to hemorrhagic strokes, which are caused by bleeding in the brain. Severity of Stroke: The more severe the stroke, the greater the risk of complications and the potential for a shorter life expectancy. Age and Health: A 70-year-old may have other health issues, such as heart disease or diabetes, which can affect recovery and longevity. Rehabilitation and Support: Access to rehabilitation services and support systems can significantly improve recovery outcomes and overall quality of life.

Statistics: Research indicates that about 50% of stroke survivors may live for at least five years post-stroke, with many living longer if effective management of risk factors and health conditions is achieved.

In summary, while many 70-year-olds can live several years after a stroke, individual outcomes can vary widely based on personal health circumstances and the effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation. It is advisable for individuals to discuss their specific situation with healthcare providers for more tailored insights.

A Personal Account

My mother had a fairly severe stroke at 79. The rehabilitation doctor said it was due to smoking, which she quit in her 50s, but I believe it was due to hormone replacement therapy. She had to re-learn to walk, but with the help of rehabilitation, her mobility was restored. She lived to almost 93.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on the type of stroke and a myriad of other factors. They might die tomorrow, or they might live another forty years. The best thing to do is help their recovery in any way possible. Keep an eye on them, make sure any noticeable changes to their health are promptly reported to a doctor, and when in doubt… go straight for the emergency services. Make sure they eat, drink, sleep, stay warm, and listen to their bodies. Don’t overdo it; ramp up daily activities slowly and over time.

Be there for them, be patient, and make sure they know that things can and do get better. Although it’s hard, they might not make a full recovery, but they’re alive and there are things they can do to enhance and speed their recovery and give them back their lives. Ensure they take their medication and ensure a doctor regularly monitors and reviews it. Follow the advice given by the hospital on their discharge.

Post-Stroke Care and Support

Join local stroke recovery groups and the Stroke Association or your own national equivalent. Communicate with other survivors, learn about their experiences, and share yours. Knowing that you’re not alone and that the things you’re experiencing are understood and expected can be immensely helpful for both the survivor and their loved ones.

Stacks of information are available. One of the most important things to aid recovery is understanding what happened and why and learning about what comes next. Remind them that a stroke isn’t the end—in fact, if you play your cards right, it can be a new beginning. Be realistic but upbeat. Things might never be the same again, but that doesn’t mean things can’t ever be good again.

Everybody’s journey is different. While you can’t change what happened, you can definitely influence what happens in the future. A stroke survivor “got away with it” so to speak. So, take what you’ve got, build on it, and stick two fingers up at the stroke by simply going on living as best you can. That’s how you recover. DO NOT let this 'bastard thing' stop you. Fight back and be strong.

Three little snapshots from my own stroke journey that started in 2015:

The initial diagnosis and the disbelief of how quickly things can change.

The challenges of daily living and adapting to new routines.

The progress and eventual re-establishment of a semblance of normalcy.