NAME:    Annie Barker AGE: 86 years CASE: Minor Stroke. Some RHS paralysis (right arm and leg) and difficulty articulating her words resulting in slurred speech

NOTES

Annie worked in a factory all her life. Since retirement she's been active organising 'all the old dears' in a local pensioners' group – outings, lunches, even protest marches.

Her main passion, though, is young people.

Quote: Kids today are no different from when I was a kid. We all got into trouble and don't let no one tell you different. All these adults – parents, teachers, politicians; they don't listen to youngsters enough, they got a lot of sensible things to say. Make a better job of running the country than a lot of my generation did.

Mild stroke making good physical recovery.

Since her illness she won't get up. She hates having to let people do things for her. Appears to be waiting to die. Lost the will to live?

RELEVANT FACTORS:

• Annie will need a scan to check the extent of the 'stroke'.
• It's good practice to check her eyesight to see if it has been impaired by the stroke (Annie's hasn't).
• While in hospital she'll need assistance with eating and diet. She may need help 'getting on her feet' again. She'll also need help to be as independent as possible (dressing, washing and so on).
• Annie had an active and happy life. Is it over? Can she be helped to regain it? Is it better to let her drift away?