June: Stroke Awareness Month
“Stroke occurrence begins to rise at the age of 55, and doubles for each decade thereafter”, according to Dr. Mike Sharma, Expert Representative of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (source). This is why stroke rehabilitation exercises are so important. The Cummings Centre, the hub for seniors in Montreal, has made it its mission to offer innovative adapted programs for adults 50 years of age and older who have experienced a stroke and other mobility issues.
Making the First Step
“The hardest part was taking the first step toward the Cummings Centre,” says Manny Patel, a participant in the Cummings Centre’s adapted programs for post-stroke rehabilitation. He continues: “From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the volunteer at the front desk and many others. Everyone cared not only about my physical improvement, but also about my mental and emotional well-being.” Our staff, specialized in adapted programs for seniors, pay close attention to everyone. The trainers understand the challenges associated with post-stroke rehabilitation exercises.
Support, Comfort and Energy
“My experience in this environment can be summed up in three words: support, comfort, and energy — pillars that motivate me to move forward each day toward a full recovery,” shares Manny. He adds: “I love coming here and try to be here almost every day. Even when I don’t have a class, I come to exercise on my own. I’ve met many people facing the same mobility challenges as I am, and I’ve seen their progress — it’s encouraging and keeps me going.”
Moved by the warm atmosphere and inspired by many success stories, Manny is eager to motivate others to do the same: “Now I can share my experience with other participants by showing them how far I’ve come.”
Post-Stroke Rehabilitation Exercises for Seniors
The Centre offers many programs for seniors with mobility issues. Specifically for post-stroke rehabilitation, we can find:
- Post Stroke Classes – General Information: a post-rehab exercise program that promotes movements that are repetitious, intensive and focused is the key to rewiring the brain and regaining control of your body (in person).
- Café Meet-Up for Stroke Survivors (free!): a place to connect, share, and discuss with people who understand the experience of stroke survivors (in person).
- Post-Stroke: Re-Training Your Arm: a program that focuses on mindful exercises that stimulate and strengthen arms and hands that are weakened due to stroke (online).
Learn more about the FAST signs of a stroke.
Seniors in Montreal: the Cummings Centre is there for you!
The Cummings Centre offers more than 300 programs (in-person and virtually) each season specifically designed for adults 50 years of age and older. A varied roster of educational, social, and stimulating courses speaks to the Centre’s vibrancy and commitment to embracing this age demographic. In-person and online programs range from art and music to social groups and games, continuing education, and wellness. Programs are designed for members to continually challenge themselves by learning, experiencing, and sharing.
To book your fitness consultation call 514.734.1840 or email us at fitnessadapt@cummingscentre.org