New Exercise Program Launches for Stroke Survivors in Vernon

A new exercise initiative aimed at stroke survivors is set to launch in Vernon, British Columbia, on October 21, 2023. The University of British Columbia (UBC) has collaborated with the City of Vernon to introduce the FAME (Fitness and Mobility Exercise) Program at the Vernon Recreation Centre. This program addresses a critical need for structured exercise options tailored to individuals recovering from strokes, a condition that affects approximately one in five people during their lifetime.

The FAME program offers a comprehensive exercise regimen designed to enhance mobility, balance, cognitive function, and endurance. Research has demonstrated that such structured group exercises can significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve overall health outcomes for stroke survivors. Delivered by trained exercise professionals, the program caters to those experiencing physical challenges, such as one-sided leg weakness, which can increase the likelihood of health complications post-stroke.

Developed by Dr. Janice Eng and her research team at the UBC Department of Physical Therapy, FAME was created to provide safe and effective exercise solutions specifically for stroke survivors. This initiative not only focuses on physical rehabilitation but also emphasizes social interaction among participants, which can be a vital component of recovery.

Jennifer Monoghan, a Kelowna resident who experienced a stroke in 2012, shared her perspective on the importance of such programs. “After my stroke, I felt lost upon discharge from the hospital. I could use my impacted side, but not as strongly or as coordinated as before. A program like FAME would have helped me regain my balance and use of my muscles, plus offer me the chance to meet others who had also suffered a stroke,” Monoghan stated. “FAME also would have helped with cognitive problems.”

The program is designed to be low-cost, making it accessible for many individuals in the community. Interested participants can register online or in person at the Vernon Recreation Centre. This initiative represents a significant step forward in providing essential support to stroke survivors, helping them regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

For more information about the FAME program, individuals can visit the Vernon Recreation Centre’s official website.