While most associate having a stroke with being in the later years of life, the truth is strokes can happen to just about anyone. In fact, one out of every three deaths in Wisconsin are related to either strokes or heart disease, many of whom are under the age of 65. Unfortunately, strokes are not just a minor inconvenience, either. With the main damage being in the brain, it can take years to fully recover, and sometimes full recovery never happens, leaving victims with a crippling disability.
People who suffer from a stroke often end up having paralysis on one side of the body, which can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks like normal. This is especially true when it comes to speaking. The mouth can become paralyzed as well, making eating, drinking and speaking difficult. In addition, stroke patients may lose some cognitive ability, which can make even forming a simple sentence or remembering what they ate for breakfast a tough chore. Faces and names, even childhood memories, can be forgotten in an instant.
Emotions and personality can also change after a stroke. Some of it can be directly credited to the damage the stroke did. Much of it, however, comes from the helplessness, confusion and anger that can overwhelm a once-active individual. Loved ones should look out for symptoms of depression.
On a logistical side, having a stroke does generally fall under long-term disability insurance coverage. If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke and are unsure how to claim disability, or have faced a long-term disability insurance claim denial, it is a good idea for you to contact an experienced attorney. They may be able to help you get on the right track, to claim the compensation you need during a difficult time.