Life after stroke
Life after a stroke can be a challenging but also transformative journey. The impact of a stroke on a person's life can vary widely depending on the type, location, and severity of the stroke, as well as the individual's overall health before the stroke. However, with the right care, support, and rehabilitation, many people can recover and regain independence.
Resources for dealing with the effects of stroke
Click on the tabs below to explore resources to help guide and support you or your loved one after stroke.
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Behaviour, cognition and memory
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Communication and speech
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Mobility, positioning and spasticity
Bed Moblity, Transfers & Ambulation (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)
Mirror Therapy Instructions for Foot and Leg (Lower Limb) After Stroke (VCH)
Mirror Therapy Instructions for Hand and Arm (Upper Limb) After Stroke (VCH)
Mobility After Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)
Positioning – Left Sided Weakness (VCH)
Positioning - Right Sided Weakness (VCH)
The Hemiplegic Arm and Hand after Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)
Treatment for Stroke-Related Spasticity (HealthLink BC) -
Additional resources
Bowel and bladder
Bowel and Bladder Function after Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)Depression and mood
Depression after Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)Eating and swallowing
Eating and Swallowing After Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)Fatigue
Practical Strategies for Managing Fatigue and Energy Conservation after Stroke (CanStroke)Recreation and leisure
Meaningful Activity After Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)
Recreation and Leisure after Stroke (CanStroke)Sex and intimacy
Ask an Expert: Sexual Wellbeing Post Stroke An Overview of Common Concerns (March of Dimes Canada)
Sexual Health Rehabilitation Service (GF Strong)
Vision and perception
Vision and Perception after Stroke (Smart Tips for Stroke Care)
Community programs and organizations
Click on the tabs below to explore resources to help guide and support you or your loved one after stroke.
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Community organizations and programs
After Stroke
For survivors and families navigating life after stroke. Offers personalized recovery programs, stroke education, peer support groups and more.BC Brain Wellness Program
Offers free wellness programming (both in-person and virtual) and care partner workshopsBrainstreams
Educational videos and information about stroke and brain injury. Survivor stories, educational topics, support groups, events around the provinceDisability Alliance
Help sheets for BC Recovery Benefits, CPP-D Benefits, PWD Benefit, Income Assistance Application and Health Topics. Free workshops.Family Caregivers of BC
For British Columbians who provide physical and/or emotional care to a family member, friend, or neighbour. Offers caregiver support groups, resources, learning centre and more.G.F. Strong
G.F. Strong aphasia education workshop
G.F. Strong understanding stroke workshopHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada is a source of information about stroke, heart disease, surgeries and treatmentsNorth Shore Recovery Centre
The North Shore Stroke Recovery Centre supports survivors of stroke in their recovery through improving quality of life and building self-confidence and independence.
Richmond Stroke Recovery Centre
A registered non-profit society whose purpose is to provide a supportive and inclusive meeting place for survivors of stroke and other acquired brain injuries (ABI), their caregivers, and families. -
Exercise program
Fitness and Mobility Exercise (FAME) Program
FAME is a group exercise program developed for people with stroke who have some standing and walking ability. The program is offered at various sites throughout BC. Please refer to the FAME website for a program site near you.Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP)
GRASP is a program designed to improve arm and hand strength, coordination, and improve the ability to use the stroke-affected arm in daily activities. The program is often started in the hospital and continued at home but can be started in the home setting. -
Returning to work/school/volunteering
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Additional resources
Advance care planning
VCH
HealthLink BCDriving after stroke
Driving a Car After a Stroke (HealthLink BC)