Living with a stroke condition

Live a healthier life

Strokes affect different people in different ways. You may not be able to do some of the things you used to do in everyday life, or you may have to adapt the way you do things.

When you feel able to, it’s a great idea to make some small, gradual changes to you lifestyle to help look after your health. Small steps can lead to big changes, so try to take things at your own pace and don’t push yourself too hard too soon.

To find more tips and information, visit our Living Well section.

Living Well

Some small changes that you can start today:

• If you are a smoker, consider cutting down smoking with an eventual goal of giving up entirely.
• Make sure that, if possible, you walk or do a small amount of exercise every day. Ideally for at least 30 minutes but if you don’t feel up to that, gentle stretches are a great way to keep you moving.
• Start keeping lists to help train your memory and keep you on top of things.
• Set timers for daily tasks like or washing your face to help you get back into a routine.
• Eat a more balanced diet and try to integrate greens wherever possible. Whether this means having spinach with your eggs at breakfast or broccoli with your evening meal, greens have great health benefits.
• Limit your alcohol consumption to the recommended amount of 14 units per week, or less if you can.

Once you are comfortable with these initial steps and you are forming great habits, slowly challenge yourself a little more where possible with the support of your loved ones.