Over the past 20 to 30 years, the face of stroke has changed dramatically. Once considered an affliction of old age, strokes are now increasingly affecting younger individuals, including children and even unborn babies. 

Traditionally, stroke support groups were composed mainly of older survivors, offering social environments with traditional entertainments like sing-alongs and occasional guest speakers. Our group was no different, with an average age in the high 70s until recent years. I joined just over seven years ago at the age of 53, and since then, we've welcomed members ranging from their 50s to mid-60s. Recently, a young woman of 21 has attended a few times. Since the end of the lockdown, our group has nearly doubled in size.

To address the evolving demographics of stroke survivors, we have introduced a varied program at our fortnightly meetings. Several years ago, we purchased an indoor curling set, which promotes improved balance and coordination and has become increasingly popular. The COVID pandemic forced us to shut down for nearly two years, but we were fortunate to survive, unlike many other groups that sadly folded.

Emerging from lockdown in 2021 with just 19 members, we have since grown to over 40 members as of August 2024. Lottery funding has been instrumental in helping us achieve our primary goal as a small local charity: improving the lives of stroke survivors and their carers. Our diverse program includes guest speakers or entertainers at one meeting, followed by activity sessions two weeks later. These activities range from seated exercises and maypole dancing to craft sessions where we design our club T-shirt and indoor floor games that enhance balance and coordination.

Between meetings, from April to January, we organize outings to places like safari parks, canal trips, sailing at the local Ivoire with afternoon tea, and seaside visits. These outings are designed to promote physical health, well-being, and mental health for everyone involved.

Statistics about Stroke Rates:

• Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke.
• About 610,000 of these are first or new strokes, while about 185,000 strokes are recurrent.
• Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability, reducing mobility in more than half of stroke survivors aged 65 and older.
• Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, and every 3 minutes and 11 seconds, someone dies of stroke.
• In 2022, stroke accounted for approximately 1 in 6 deaths from cardiovascular disease in the United States.

Prevention Tips for Strokes:

• Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. Aim to keep your blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg through diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of stroke. Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce your risk.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Control Blood Sugar Levels: Diabetes is a significant risk factor for stroke. Manage your blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medication.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce salt and cholesterol intake.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of stroke. Seek support to quit smoking if needed.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase stroke risk. Limit alcohol to moderate level.

• Symptoms of Stroke:

• Sudden Numbness or Weakness: Especially on one side of the body, affecting the face, arm, or leg.
• Confusion: Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
• Vision Problems: Trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Difficulty Walking: Dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
• Severe Headache: A sudden, severe headache with no known cause.

If you notice any of these symptoms, even if they come and go, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Remember the acronym FAST to help recognize stroke symptoms:

• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call emergency services.