Understanding strokes

Stroke is a leading cause of disability, with 56,000 Australians suffering from new and recurrent strokes in 2017. Put simply, a stroke happens when blood supply to the brain is interrupted.

The blood may be interrupted or stop moving through an artery because the artery is blocked (ischaemic stroke) or bursts (haemorrhagic stroke). Every stroke is different, and the severity of the damage caused during the stroke will determine the individual’s recovery and any disabilities.

  • More than 80% of strokes can be prevented.
  • A stroke can happen in childhood and adulthood.
  • 65% of stroke survivors sustain a disability.
  • Treatment following a stroke is crucial.
  • The longer a stroke remains untreated, the greater the chance of stroke-related brain damage.

There are three common signs to look out for to determine if a person may be having a stroke:

  1. Check their face – has their mouth drooped?
  2. Can they lift both arms?
  3. Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.

The following signs of stroke may also occur, either alone or in combination:

  • Dizziness, loss of balance or an unexplained fall
  • Weakness, numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on either or both sides of the body
  • Problems with speaking or understanding language, and/or reading and writing
  • Difficulties swallowing and managing saliva, food, and drink
  • Changes to vision, for example sudden blurring or decreased vision in one or both eyes

This information has been provided to us by the Stroke Foundation.

Contact us today

Give us a call on 1800 275 753 to discuss your support needs with our Allied Health team, or send an online enquiry and we'll be in touch.

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How can CPL help?

No matter where you are on your journey, we are ready to help you achieve your goals. Our services aim to support people to reach their full potential through:  

Independent living

CPL provides 24/7 Supported Independent Living services, and has a number of vacancies in accessible homes.

Employment and Training opportunities

There are a range of disability employment and training pathways to help people who have experienced a stroke to re-enter or join the workforce.

Support at home 

CPL can support you with day-to-day tasks, depending on your needs, from getting ready for school, university or work, right through to mealtime assistance and medication.

Allied Health therapies

CPL's Allied Health team can support people who have experienced a stroke to aid recovery and help them reach their goals. This can include speech, physical and occupational therapies.