Cork Stroke Support and Rethink Ireland conduct important research on the impact of exercise on stroke survivors
Cork Stroke Support and Rethink Ireland have launched a new report highlighting major gaps in community rehabilitation services for stroke survivors across Ireland, despite growing evidence that exercise plays a vital role in recovery and long-term health outcomes.
The report warns that rehabilitation supports remain underdeveloped, inconsistent and often inaccessible, particularly for people living with moderate to severe stroke-related disabilities.
According to the findings, while exercise at the correct intensity can help prevent chronic illness, improve strength and reduce the risk of falls, many stroke survivors have limited opportunities to participate in safe and effective rehabilitation programmes in their communities.
Cork Stroke Support is now calling for urgent investment in community-based rehabilitation services, including greater access to online exercise programmes and stronger partnerships with local organisations.
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability in Ireland, with an estimated 30,000 to 60,000 people currently living with stroke-related disabilities. The report also notes that new stroke cases could rise by as much as 59 per cent over the next two decades, placing increasing pressure on the healthcare system. Stroke-related care is estimated to account for up to four per cent of healthcare costs nationally.
As part of the initiative, Cork Stroke Support partnered with Rethink Ireland to develop a seven-week moderate-intensity exercise programme focused on upper and lower limb strengthening, balance training and aerobic conditioning.
The results of the programme were unveiled at an event held at Cork Stroke Support’s offices in Blackrock, Cork.
Mark Exshaw, stroke survivor, pictured trying out the gym equipment at Cork Stroke Support, with support from Dan Cronin, Chair Cork Stroke Support; Hadley James, exercise facilitator, and Sarah Slattery, lead physiotherapist at Cork Stroke Support, as Cork Stroke Support and Rethink Ireland have launched a detailed report on the impact of exercise on stroke survivors. Pic: Michael O’Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
Among the findings:
- 82 per cent of participants rated the classes as excellent
- 89 per cent reported improved confidence
- 100 per cent said they experienced a sense of community and belonging
- 96 per cent said they felt physically stronger following the programme
Sarah Slattery, physiotherapy lead at Cork Stroke Support, said the programme delivered measurable improvements in participants’ balance, fitness and strength.
‘The results of the Rethink Ireland programme show both clinical and statistically significant changes across all three domains of balance, fitness and strength,’ she said.
‘This absolutely means a translation to increase in function and lower risk of falls. Given the huge body of research stating heavily that “exercise is medicine”, we can confidently hypothesise that our members are not just physically healthier but also healthier overall.’
Ms Slattery added that the long-term benefits of rehabilitation programmes extend beyond the individual participants.
‘The cost benefit to the State and the HSE of keeping stroke survivors off the floor, out of A&E and outpatient clinics, and in their homes living independently as long as possible, cannot be understated,’ she said.
Participant Mark Exshaw said the programme had transformed his daily life.
‘I started exercising at the gym at Cork Stroke Support under the guidance of Sarah and the team and my life has changed dramatically since then,’ he said.
‘I am now confident about taking on everyday activities and the exercise group gives me great social interaction and support every week.’