About Stroke
Stroke is also known as cerebrovascular disease. When blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off due to a burst or blocked blood vessel, brain cells begin to die and function is impaired. It takes immediate effect, and symptoms can vary from person to person, but it can damage: bodily functions, our thought processes, our ability to learn, and how we feel and communicate.
It is estimated that roughly 150,000 people in the UK, per year, have a stroke. It is the third most common cause of death, with over 5,000 deaths in Scotland per year alone - and over 300,000 people in the UK are living with its disabling effects. Scotland is particularly high-risk for stroke, as the national preferred diet, propensity for smoking, and low rates of physical exercise are alarm bells for the cerebrovascular system.
But stroke is a preventable disease. By undertaking a few simple measures, you can reduce your risk considerably. These measures may include:
- A simple health check, including a blood-pressure test
- Reducing stress and depression
- Improving diet
- Increasing exercise
- Stopping smoking
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Making informed decisions about any medications that may elevate stroke risk - including contraception and HRT
After suffering a stroke, the road to recovery may be long and frustrating, and there is no standard recovery time. The aim for all stroke patients is to return to as normal a life as possible, adapting to any limitations their stroke may have caused, learning new skills and, in many cases, re-learning old ones.But one of the most important aids to recovery is maintaining an optimistic, positive attitude.
Bute Stroke Support Group
Under the aegis of Bute Healthy Living, and affiliated with Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland, the group aims to provide physical therapy and social interaction for those affected by stroke. Importantly, it is also keen to encourage those at risk of stroke to take part, as a preventative measure. Currently there are roughly 25 members, with an average attendance of around 12 for each meeting. We are a friendly, welcoming group, with a real commitment to helping and supporting each other through the effects of stroke. We understand how easy it is to become isolated and frustrated. Bute Stroke Support Group offers the chance to keep active, keep social, and keep fit.
Meetings
When?
The Bute Stroke Support Group meets every Monday and Thursday in The Moat Centre from 2pm - 4pm.
What happens?
Meetings include a gentle, 30 minute exercise session with the exercise assistant, Jim Sweeney - but, because we provide the equipment ourselves (such as a recumbent cycle and a stepper), also allows for independent exercising. We are a self-help group, and as such each member is encouraged to work at their own pace, to their own routine, recognising their own challenges and limitations in an environment of friendly support.
After the exercise class, there is the chance for socialising. Members enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a snack, and can catch up with each other's news. They can also get support and ideas from people who have a unique insight into living with stroke.
Is it Expensive?
No. Each session costs a minimal payment of £1, which covers use of the exercise equipment and tea/coffee & biscuits.
What if I have no means of transport?
A taxi service is provided to take members to and from The Moat Centre. It costs only £1 return.
Does the group do anything else?
From time to time, the group has had talks from other members of the community on subjects such as: diet; applying for benefits; and managing medication.We hope to continue this in the future. We have also spoken about the chance for day trips and excursions, and would be open to suggestions!
How can I join?
If you simply want to turn up at 2pm on either Monday or Thursday, at the Moat Hall, then you will be made extremely welcome. Alternatively, enquiries can be made through the Bute Healthy Living Partnership, at:
16 Longhill Crescent
Rothesay
Isle of Bute
PA20 OJT
Tel: 01700 505041
Email: info@butehealthyliving.org.uk
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