If you have a known heart rhythm disorder, follow your treatment plan and ask your healthcare professional about your personal stroke risk.
3. Diabetes
Diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.
Over time, elevated blood glucose can contribute to changes in the arteries, especially when combined with high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels.
People with diabetes should work with their healthcare team to manage blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other relevant health factors.
Foot symptoms, unusual fatigue, excessive thirst, or changes in urination may warrant medical evaluation, but no single symptom can establish whether a person has diabetes.
Routine screening is particularly important for people who have risk factors or have been advised to undergo testing.
4. High cholesterol
High levels of certain blood lipids can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. This process, known as atherosclerosis, can narrow blood vessels and contribute to cardiovascular events, including ischemic stroke.
Cholesterol management depends on a person's overall cardiovascular risk, medical history, and laboratory results.
For some people, lifestyle changes may be sufficient to improve certain measurements. Others may benefit from medication, such as a statin, based on their risk profile.
The appropriate approach should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
5. Smoking and excessive alcohol use
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases cardiovascular risk. Quitting is one of the most beneficial steps a smoker can take to improve long-term health.
Excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, and other conditions that raise stroke risk.
People who drink should discuss their consumption with a healthcare professional if they have concerns about their health, medications, or dependence.
6. Physical inactivity and an unhealthy diet
Regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, helps manage blood pressure, and can improve glucose regulation and general mobility.
Older adults do not necessarily need intense workouts. Walking, water-based exercise, strength training, or balance activities may be appropriate depending on their abilities and medical circumstances.
People who have been inactive should begin gradually and seek guidance if they have significant medical limitations.
A balanced diet can also support blood pressure and cholesterol management. Many people benefit from eating more vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and appropriate sources of protein while limiting excessive sodium and highly processed foods.
Specific dietary recommendations should be adapted to conditions such as kidney disease, heart failure, diabetes, or other medical needs.
7. Previous stroke or transient ischemic attack
Someone who has already experienced a stroke or a transient ischemic attack, sometimes called a TIA or a "mini-stroke," may have a higher risk of another event.
A TIA causes temporary neurological symptoms and can be a warning that a more serious stroke may occur.
Even if the symptoms disappear, urgent medical evaluation is necessary.
People with a history of stroke or TIA should follow their prescribed prevention plan, which may include medication, management of blood pressure and cholesterol, treatment of heart conditions, and lifestyle changes.
This is not a situation in which changing sleep position should be relied upon as the primary preventive measure.
The bigger picture
Many of the most important stroke risk factors can be identified through routine healthcare.
A medical review can help determine whether blood pressure is controlled, whether cholesterol testing is needed, whether diabetes screening is appropriate, and whether symptoms suggest an underlying heart or sleep disorder.
For older adults, these practical steps are much more strongly supported by evidence than claims that a specific sleeping position will prevent stroke.
Good sleep is part of a healthy lifestyle, but it works alongside—not instead of—effective management of cardiovascular risk.
And knowing the warning signs of a stroke is just as important as preventing one.
Chapter 5: Simple Nighttime Habits That Support Healthy Aging
Although no particular sleeping position guarantees protection from stroke, older adults can develop nighttime habits that support better sleep and general health.
The aim is to make rest more comfortable, identify medical problems that interfere with sleep, and support the health habits that reduce cardiovascular risk.
Establish a consistent sleep routine
Going to bed and waking up at reasonably consistent times can help regulate the body's internal clock.
Older adults may find that their sleep patterns change with age. Some become sleepy earlier in the evening, wake earlier in the morning, or experience more nighttime awakenings.
These changes are not always signs of illness, but persistent insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness deserves attention.
A relaxing routine can help signal that it is time to rest.
For example, a person might dim the lights, read a book, listen to quiet music, or take part in another calming activity before bed.
Avoiding stimulating activities close to bedtime may help some people settle more easily.
Make the bedroom comfortable and safe
The sleeping environment can influence both sleep quality and nighttime safety.
A cool, quiet, dark bedroom may help many people sleep more comfortably. A supportive mattress and suitable pillows can reduce pressure on painful joints and help maintain a comfortable neck position.
Older adults should also consider fall prevention.
A clear path between the bed and bathroom, adequate night lighting, secure rugs, and easily accessible walking aids can reduce hazards when getting up at night.
People who experience dizziness when standing should rise slowly and discuss recurring symptoms with a healthcare professional.
Choose pillows that support the neck
A pillow that is too high or too low can cause neck discomfort.