We know that exercise provides many benefits including reducing risk factors for having a stroke. The Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations state that most individuals that are medically stable should start an exercise program after having a stroke and recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Stroke-specific exercise programs are designed specifically to meet the needs of persons with stroke.
Community News
The Community Stroke Support Services: Southeastern Ontario Annual Report and Infographic have been released. This report is produced annually in partnership with the Community Support Agencies involved in the delivery of Stroke Support Services: Community Care for South Hastings (HPE), VON – Greater Kingston Area (KFLA) and Community and Primary Health Care (LLG).
The Community Stroke Rehabilitation Program (CSRP) 2021-22 Annual Report and Infographic have been released jointly by Home and Community Care Support Services and the Stroke Network of Southeastern Ontario.
“I’m learning how to talk” and “she can communicate and I can understand” were two comments voiced by participants of Aphasia Supportive Conversation Groups in the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville area. These groups resumed in Perth and their success has led to a second group in Brockville.
Transitioning from hospital to community is recognized as a challenging time for individuals who have experienced a stroke and their families. Melissa Roblin, Stroke Resource Nurse, Quinte Health Care states " Leaving hospital brings forward both good and bad stress. To alleviate some this stress, we have found it helps to introduce patients and families to our partners in the community prior to discharge. Whether it be an in person meeting with a home and community care OT or a virtual visit with the stroke service coordinator with community care, these introductions help our patients feel more comfortable transitioning back to the community"
Despite the struggles of the pandemic, the performance of our stroke system continues to be strong. This is due to the ongoing dedication, compassion and hard work of everyone working in stroke care in our region, across the full continuum of care.
Care providers in Southeastern Ontario recognize the numerous health benefits associated with stroke-specific community-based exercise programs. The Canadian Stroke Community-based Exercise Recommendations have been recently updated and include current evidence for exercise providers to plan and implement their programs.
Back by popular demand! The virtual LLG Community Stroke Partners Expo was held on October 27th, 2021. Twenty-two community agencies from across Lanark, Leeds and Grenville County and beyond shared information with the attending health care providers on the post-stroke services they offer to stroke survivors and their families.
In recognition of Stroke Awareness Month this past June, health care providers within the southeast took the opportunity to support the sharing of stroke survivor stories, enhance awareness of stroke and provide information on relevant services.
“Both my wife (who is a stroke survivor) and I have been attending the stroke support group for several years now. We have found this service to be very effective; a place to go to where you feel like you belong, where you receive answers to your questions and practical guidance. The camaraderie of the group fills an important gap in addressing the loneliness that can occur after a stroke when neighbors, friends and co-workers may drift away over time. There is nothing worse than loneliness and isolation and the support group not only meets this need but also helps you to become a part o