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| Dean Reinke Deans' Stroke Musing |
I know this is not what Jill Bolte-Taylor would say. Loneliness Not Good for Post-Stroke Progress. -- Deans' Stroke Musing
Companionship might be the key for better healing following a stroke, according to a preclinical study presented at the recent International Stroke Conference in New Orleans.
Mice that were socially isolated tended to have greater ischemic infarct volumes relative to mice paired with a stroke partner or a healthy partner. In addition, the solitary mice had significantly decreased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps support the survival of existing neurons.
Interestingly, the mice paired with healthy partners had significantly more BDNF than mice paired with a stroke partner. BDNF could be a marker for functional recovery, lead author Venugopal Reddy Venna, PhD, from the University of Connecticut in Farmington, Conn., told MedPage Today.
Venna said that post-stroke housing is critically important and should be considered in all patients, but especially in clinical studies evaluating various rehabilitative strategies.
See the original article Lab Notes: Stroke Recovery Loves Company
in Dean's Stroke Musing
Dean, I find this to be true especially after a stroke. I am the caregiver for my terminally ill husband before and post stroke. My focus on elements needed in his care were paramount in my mind. In fact, I worked harder to find solutions and alternatives that would work because of it and recovered those things faster than if it were just for me.
ReplyDeleteHaving the interaction with others is just as important as you working towards it. They cheer you on and hand you tissues when you need it.