Meal Planning for Health

Education

Meal Planning is a powerful tool for bettering your health. By intentionally planning foods to eat, you can significantly reduce your risk of another stroke.

Eating a heart-healthy diet after stroke

A heart-healthy diet is recommended for most adults as a way of life and also for people who have had a stroke. What makes up a heart-healthy diet? When you prepare your food, you can create sections on your plate as a guide to help you build a heart-healthy meal.

Lean Protein

Try to eat mostly lean proteins, including chicken, turkey, pork, fish, nuts, grains, and legumes provide healthy options for protein. Proteins to avoid include meats such as steaks, hamburgers, and other proteins that are high in saturated fat.

Whole Grains

Whole grains, like oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole grain pasta, are high in fiber, which helps manage blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Aim to choose whole grains over refined grains.

Fruits and Vegetables

Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, fruits and vegetables help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. Any fruit or vegetable is a great addition to your diet. When it comes to produce, the motto is “the more the merrier”.

Low-Fat Dairy

Low-fat or fat-free dairy products, like cottage cheese, milk, yogurt, etc. can be a healthy addition to your diet. Be sure to choose low-fat varieties.

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Eating for stroke recovery is also about limiting or avoiding certain foods. Here’s a breakdown of the types of foods to eat less of when prioritizing heart health.

Saturated Fats

Fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, butter, lard, palm oil, and partially hydrogenated oils found in many fried foods have high amounts of these unhealthy fats. These should be eaten sparingly. It’s okay if you have them occasionally, but keep it to a minimum.

Added Sugar

Sugar-sweetened beverages, candy, baked goods, desserts, and many processed foods like ketchup, flavored yogurts, salad dressings, peanut butter, granola bars, etc. contain an abundance of added sugar. It can be challenging, but aim to limit the added sugars in your food and drinks.

Sodium

Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. There are many hidden sources of sodium including processed snack foods, canned soups, fast food, salted snacks, and even condiments.

Food preparation

Preparing and eating meals can be challenging with limited arm or hand mobility or fatigue. Instead of resorting to processed take-out meals, which lack nutrition, plan your weekly meals. This can help to reduce daily cooking stress and simplify your workload. Write out what you plan to make each day of the week, and shop for foods that help reduce the burden of cooking prep. Experiment with bagged salad kits, pre-chopped vegetables, marinated meats, or even fully-prepared refrigerated meals. These options are incredible resources. Feel free to use them!

To support safe and efficient meal planning, consider the weight and material of the cooking supplies. Here are a list of kitchen tools that may be helpful.

Easy to open Tupperware for improving accessibility
Lightweight pots and pans, mixing bowls with handles
Using appliances like the InstantPot to avoid exposure to a heat flame
Adaptive equipment to easily open jars and cans
Dycem to help cutting boards, pots, and bowls from sliding
Modified cutting boards that address limitations in hand and arm use

Ordering groceries and meals online

Think about utilizing online grocery ordering services or meal delivery services. By carefully reviewing ingredients you can make informed decisions about your purchases. Online ordering also minimizes the chance of impulse buying unhealthy snacks.
Several companies offer complete meal delivery services or provide ingredients along with detailed cooking instructions for preparing meals at home. These meal delivery services often provide fresh, nutritious food options. And the best part? You don’t ever have to leave the comfort of your own home.

Managing food textures

If you experience difficulty swallowing, eating can be challenging. Finding ways to ensure your intake of essential nutrients does not slip is crucial. Creating thick soups can be an effective solution, as they are easy to swallow and can be conveniently stored in the freezer. Keep in mind, it’s best to make soups from scratch as opposed to canned soups in order to control salt and sugar levels.

As always, consulting with your dietitian, speech therapist, or occupational therapist is the best way to get personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. They can evaluate your dietary and eating requirements and develop a plan tailored just for you.

Get support with meal planning.

Kandu Navigators and Dietitians work directly with stroke survivors to support healthy lifestyle and behavior changes that can reduce a survivor’s stroke risk. Our experienced doctors, nurses, and navigators take the time to understand your individual needs, developing personalized recovery plans and providing essential resources to help make recovery a lot smoother.

Get more information and register for Kandu today

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Diabetes and Stroke

Diabetes is a medical condition involving the hormone insulin. Insulin is a hormone our bodies use to help turn glucose (sugars) in our food into energy. Continue Reading Diabetes and Stroke

Caring for a stroke survivor

Stroke survivors face significant challenges, and as their caregiver, you have the ability to be a strong support system. Continue Reading Caring for a stroke survivor

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

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Diabetes and Stroke

Education

Diabetes and Stroke

Diabetes is a medical condition involving the hormone insulin. Insulin is a hormone our bodies use to help turn glucose (sugars) in our food into energy.

After you eat, sugar from the food is broken down and pumped into your bloodstream. Your blood transports this sugar all around your body. Insulin is the key that grants the sugar access to the cells in your body. These cells use the sugar for energy. Without enough insulin or without effective insulin, the sugar builds up in your bloodstream, causing high blood sugar.

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes

There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

In type 1 diabetes

The body does not produce enough insulin.

In type 2 diabetes

The body has enough insulin but it has lost its effectiveness.

In both cases, when our bodies don’t have enough insulin or don’t use it correctly, it eventually causes blood glucose levels to rise. Elevated blood glucose levels can cause complications including heart damage, problems with vision and can lead to stroke.

Symptoms of diabetes

Someone with diabetes may:

Feel thirsty
Feel very tired and have no energy
Experience weight loss, or
Urinate more than usual

After a stroke, you may get a lot of testing done. You may receive a blood test that assesses for diabetes which looks at your blood sugar over time, called hemoglobin A1C. If you are diagnosed with diabetes after your stroke, your healthcare team should connect you with a team to offer education and treatment options.

Options for support

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers lifestyle change programs across the country. This is a 12-month wellness program to support individuals at risk or newly diagnosed with diabetes. The first 6-months of the program, the group meets once a week and the second 6-months, the group meets once or twice a month.

CDC website

The Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) also has some great resources and runs groups to support people diagnosed with diabetes. These groups provide diabetes self-management education and support with one-on-one and group coaching related to diabetes care.

ADCES website

Managing your diabetes

People who have diabetes are twice as likely to have a stroke. Therefore, it is important to know how to best manage your condition. Many of the recommended lifestyle changes for diabetes are the same ones that are recommended after stroke.

Icon of a heart and blood pressure monitor, representing the importance of monitoring blood pressure.

It’s important to take your blood glucose levels frequently. Your healthcare team can help teach you how to do this and set you up with a plan that works for you.

Take medications as directed by the healthcare team. Medication is affected by the timing of food intake.

Icon of fruit, indicating a healthy diet as part of stroke prevention.

Eat a healthy diet. Meal Planning can help you control your diet.

Icon with a crossed-out cigarette, promoting quitting smoking for stroke prevention.

It is recommended to quit smoking and limit drinking to a minimum.

Maintain a healthy weight and try to exercise regularly. Any kind of exercise you are able to do is beneficial, including going for walks around your house or doing exercises from a chair. Remember, you can ask your healthcare team for guidance with this.

Icon of a person walking with a cane, symbolizing the role of regular physical activity in reducing stroke risk.

Physical activity after meals helps reduce glucose spikes. Moving around for even 10-minutes after each meal is beneficial.

Foods to Eat

Vegetables (artichoke, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, tomato, bell peppers, etc.)
- Fresh whole, pre-chopped, frozen, canned (look for “no added salt”)
Fruits (apples, cantaloupe, blueberries, grapes, etc.)
- Fresh whole, pre-chopped, dried, frozen, canned (look for “no added sugar”)
- There are several fruits that are particularly beneficial, as they are lower in sugar compared to other fruits. These encouraged fruits include: raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, kiwis, watermelon, avocado, cantaloupe, oranges, peaches.
Whole Grains (brown rice, quinoa, millet, whole wheat, barley, etc.)
Lean Proteins (turkey, skinless chicken, tofu, lean beef, pork loin, shrimp, fish, eggs)
Nuts & Seeds (almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, etc.)
Low-Fat Dairy (cottage cheese, milk, yogurt, cheese)

Foods to Limit

Foods high in fat (deep fried foods, ice cream, bacon, sausage, pizza, etc.)
Foods high in salt (canned soups, hot dogs, potato chips, pizza, etc.)
Foods high in sugar (baked goods, soda, candy, milkshakes, etc.)
Processed foods* (ice cream, potato chips, sausage, instant soups, etc.)

*What’s the difference between a whole food and a processed food?
In general, think of this as foods that come in a box or a bag. They typically have a nutrition facts label and a long ingredient list. For example, an apple does not have a nutrition facts label or ingredient list. It is an example of a whole food. Cheese crackers come in a box and have an extensive ingredient list. This is an example of processed food.

“Snack Formula” (Produce+Protein)

When selecting a snack, follow the snack formula to achieve blood sugar balance.

In general, pairing a form of produce with a source of protein will prevent a blood sugar spike, keep you fuller for longer, and provide consistent energy for several hours.

Examples:

Apple + Peanut Butter
Carrots + Hummus
Grapes + String Cheese
Celery + Cream Cheese

Select an item of produce and a source of protein from the below table to build a healthy, balanced snack.

Produce

oranges

cauliflower

raisins

dried figs

sweet potato

tomatoes

celery

bell pepper

avocado

raspberries

edamame

snap peas

broccoli

grapes

carrots

apple

peaches

Protein

low-fat cottage cheese

walnuts

lentils

black bean dip

low-sodium beef jerky

sliced cheese

cream cheese

roasted chickpeas

tuna

chicken

hard boiled eggs

pistachios

almonds

low-fat greek yogurt

string cheese

hummus

peanut butter (other nut butters)

Healthy Dessert Ideas

You can enjoy dessert while eating mindfully for diabetes. Here are a few healthy dessert ideas for diabetes:

Graham crackers with nut butter
Chia seed pudding
Angel food cake with raspberries
Sweet potato brownies
Black bean brownies
Frozen yogurt bites
Avocado mousse

There are a few things to consider when building a “healthier” dessert:

Choose low sugar options.
Pair sugary foods with fruit or protein.
Use portion control. Aim to consume a dessert portion no larger than the palm of your hand.

Citations

Cleveland Clinic. (2022) Diabetes and stroke: Causes, symptoms, treatment & prevention. Cleveland Clinic Health Library. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9812-diabetes-and-stroke
Chen, R., Ovbiagele, B., & Feng, W. (2016). Diabetes and Stroke: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Pharmaceuticals and Outcomes. The American journal of the medical sciences, 351(4), 380–386. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjms.2016.01.011
Stroke Association. (n.d.). Diabetes and stroke. https://www.stroke.org.uk/what-is-stroke/are-you-at-risk-of-stroke/diabetes
American Diabetes Association. (2022) Get serious about stroke prevention. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/stroke
American Diabetes Association. (2022). Diabetes and stroke prevention. https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/stroke-risk-factors/diabetes-and-stroke-prevention

Support for stroke survivors and their care partners

Kandu’s stroke recovery services offer comprehensive support for both stroke survivors and their care partners. Our experienced doctors, nurses, and navigators take the time to understand your individual needs, developing personalized recovery plans and providing essential resources to help make recovery a lot smoother.

Get more information and register for Kandu today

More Information

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Stroke survivors face significant challenges, and as their caregiver, you have the ability to be a strong support system. Continue Reading Caring for a stroke survivor

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

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Caring for a stroke survivor

Education

Caring for a stroke survivor

Supporting your loved one after stroke

If your loved one has had a stroke, you’re probably wondering how you can best support them. Stroke survivors face significant challenges, and as their caregiver, you have the ability to be a strong support system. One of the most important ways to help is by understanding how to provide emotional support during their recovery.

What is a care partner?

At Kandu Health, we define a care partner as an unpaid friend or family member sharing care for someone living with the effects of a stroke. The care partner takes a role in managing the stroke survivor’s health and recovery.
We use the term care partner instead of caregiver because we recognize that you and your survivor act as a team during recovery. Stroke survivors may identify one or more care partners and those care partners may change over time based on bandwidth and the survivors’ needs. Kandu is committed to maximizing each survivor’s agency over both their identity and health and uses the term ‘care partner’ to reinforce this idea.

Don’t blame the stroke survivor

Each year, an estimated 888,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke, and this number is expected to rise. Anyone, including people you know—or even yourself—could have a stroke at some point.
It’s crucial to understand that the stroke survivor did not cause their stroke. Even if someone has engaged in unhealthy behaviors, a stroke can be triggered by numerous other factors. While there are steps like eating healthy, quitting smoking, and taking medication that can lower the risk of a stroke, they don’t guarantee prevention.
Blaming the survivor isn’t helpful. You might feel that they need to change their habits, but real, lasting change must come from within. When people make changes out of fear or pressure, those changes often don’t stick. Trying to force “healthy” choices could cause more harm than good.
Instead, support the survivor by focusing on their values. Rather than warning them they’ll have another stroke if they don’t change, ask what’s important to them. Focus on what they want to add to their life, not what needs to be taken away.

Allow them to be where they are.

Don’t expect stroke survivors to be constantly inspiring, brave, or happy. They’ve gone through a traumatic event and need time to grieve. Putting pressure on them to always be uplifting or positive can lead to feelings of inadequacy if they don’t meet those expectations. Stroke survivors don’t need pity, toxic positivity, or unsolicited advice. What they do need is empathy, respect, and dignity.

Even though you may not fully understand what a stroke survivor is going through, you can listen and show empathy. Stroke survivors don’t need to be “fixed”—they need to be heard.

Try to understand the emotional burden

The mental health impact of a stroke is significant. Depression, which is often chemical and biological, is a common consequence after a stroke, regardless of external factors. Many stroke survivors also struggle with anxiety and post-traumatic stress. Having faced a near-death experience, they often deal with unresolved emotions.

Family members and care partners may also experience stress, anxiety, and even depression as they navigate the changes in caring for a loved one with a disability. This can strain relationships. Stroke survivors and their care partners need understanding as they face these new challenges.

Remove barriers instead of ‘fixing’

After a stroke, both survivors and their families often focus on “getting back to where they were.” However, recovery is not about “fixing” the person—it’s about addressing the social and environmental barriers that limit their participation in society. Stroke survivors face challenges such as discrimination, physical barriers, and social isolation, which can cause frustration and feelings of helplessness.

Recovery is personal, and what matters most is quality of life and the ability to participate in activities. Focus on removing barriers that make social participation difficult for your loved one. Include them in decisions, and let them choose their level of involvement.

It can be challenging for survivors to access public spaces or transportation, and they may struggle to find employment. Feeling excluded from activities they previously enjoyed can be painful. Instead of organizing events that might be inaccessible, do what you can to remove barriers and support inclusion.

Respect their autonomy

It’s natural to want to help a stroke survivor in any way possible, but it’s important to respect their autonomy. Decisions should be made collaboratively, with the survivor’s preferences and goals in mind. While you can offer support and guidance, ultimately the decision should be theirs. Even if their decision-making process is slower than you’re used to, be patient and avoid frustration—this will help protect their sense of agency.

Recovery from a stroke isn’t linear, and survivors will have different needs at different stages. Flexibility and ongoing communication are key to providing the right kind of support. By respecting their autonomy, you help foster their sense of dignity and well-being.

In some cases, family therapy or other resources might be necessary to help rebuild relationships and address the emotional challenges that can arise. Stroke survivors face obstacles like mental health struggles, social isolation, and even hurtful actions from loved ones, which can delay recovery. They need to build a network of “safe people” who support their recovery without draining their energy.

How to be a safe person for a stroke survivor

Being a safe person for a stroke survivor means offering more than just medical support—it involves empathy, understanding, and respect. Here’s a guide to help you become a safe person for someone in stroke recovery:

Listen, don’t fix

Avoid trying to “fix” the stroke survivor. They don’t need solutions from you, as they have a team of professionals and advocacy support from Kandu to guide their recovery. What they need most is someone to listen to them.

Respond with confidence and calm

When asked for help, offer assurance. A calm presence provides them with a sense of stability.

Offer empathy over advice

Survivors need to feel heard and understood, not given unsolicited advice.

Be reliable

Stroke survivors need to trust that you’ll be there when you say you will.

Be mindful of your questions

Ask questions in a thoughtful and sensitive way, with genuine curiosity and kindness. Avoid questions just to satisfy your curiosity; only ask if it truly serves the survivor’s needs and experience. You are not entitled to someone’s story just because you’re curious.

Be clear about your support

It’s okay if you can’t do everything—everyone has their own responsibilities. Overextending yourself can lead to resentment. Be honest about your availability, and don’t overcommit.

Be flexible

Stroke survivors often experience post-stroke fatigue and may need to cancel at the last minute. Be understanding about their energy levels and respectful of their time, adjusting yours when possible.

Value them for who they are

Let the survivor know you value them as a person. During this time, they need to hear and feel that appreciation.

Understand they’ve had a unique experience

Recognize that their experience is different from anything you might fully understand. Instead of trying to relate, accept their experience with compassion and kindness.

Be patient and let them speak for themselves

Don’t speak for the survivor, rush them, guess their words, or fill in pauses. Give them the time they need to speak, and redirect conversations back to them if others talk to you instead of directly to the survivor.

Maintain genuine connections

Show up authentically in your interactions, and take breaks if you feel stressed or unsure. A safe person feels a genuine connection with the stroke survivor. If you feel frustrated, stressed, or overwhelmed, take time for yourself rather than exposing the survivor to those feelings.

Self-reflect

Regularly ask yourself, “Am I a safe person for the survivor?”

Not everyone will meet these guidelines perfectly, but striving to be a safe person can greatly support a stroke survivor’s recovery, helping them feel valued, understood, and supported.

Support for stroke survivors and their care partners

Get more information and register for Kandu today

More Information

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

Connecting with your community

Socializing after a stroke: Finding community post-stroke, navigating social obstacles after stroke, making friends after stroke. Continue Reading Connecting with your community

Doctor explaining to a stroke survivor how different regions of the brain are affected by a stroke using a human brain model.

Regions of the Brain and What They Control

The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading Regions of the Brain and What They Control

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How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

Education

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

A stroke happens when blood fl ow to a specific area of the brain is disrupted, causing a shortage of oxygen for the brain cells in that region. These brain cells become damaged when deprived of oxygen, which can result in a loss of function in the body parts controlled by the affected area. However, the brain has a remarkable ability to recover over time through neuroplasticity, potentially recovering function in the days, weeks, and even years following a stroke.

What is neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity, or brain plasticity, is the brain’s ability to change and adapt.

The brain communicates through networks of neurons (brain cells) and synapses (neuron connectors). New neurons (neurogenesis) and neuron connections can be made and strengthened after a stroke.

Your brain can also be ‘rewired’ so undamaged parts can learn to take over the jobs of damaged parts (functional remodeling).

1

Signals go from one cell to another forming a connection to the brain.

2

When a stroke kills brain cells, it damages the connection.

3

Brain cells can sometimes form new connections, and start sending signals again.

While some neuroplasticity may automatically happen after your stroke, you can potentially heal faster and recover more by doing tasks and treatments that make neuroplasticity more likely to happen. Neuroplasticity peaks during the first few months after a stroke. If you exercise your brain, recovery is possible after this time, and progress may be slower or less noticeable.

Changes in the brain happen in response to experiences or engaging in activities. You can help your brain recover by repeating meaningful activities and choosing to do activities that are not too hard or easy but “just right” in terms of difficulty level.

For example, you might lift your affected leg only using your leg muscles when placing your leg in your pants. You may also brush your hair or reach for objects with your affected arm. It can be safer to avoid handling any hot or sharp objects while your affected arm is still relearning tasks.

Enriched environments can also help the brain heal after a stroke. These include music, sunlight, mindfulness, medication, social interactions, or other elements that help awaken the senses and activate the brain.

There are some evidence-based, innovative treatments to help your brain heal after a stroke.

Virtual Reality-based training can be a fun and engaging way to work on healing your brain using specific virtual reality environments as a tool for rehabilitation.
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy. This treatment promotes using the side of the body affected by the stroke by restraining the other side. When the affected side is forced to try activities, it can improve faster. This is a potential option for people with some movement on the affected side.
In Mirror Therapy , the person watches the unaffected part of the body move in the mirror. The brain will think that the affected side of the body is moving and will activate that part of the brain that is associated with movement on the affected side. Mirror Therapy is usually done with other traditional rehabilitation.
Electrical Stimulation involves delivering small electrical pulses to the muscle through a small patch put directly on the muscle. This electrical pulse sends a signal and can help rebuild the connection between the muscle and brain.
Brain-machine interfaces have the person think of moving. Then, the machine uses that brain signal to move a device. This helps the brain practice sending a signal and getting feedback from the device moving at the same time, which helps strengthen the connection and communication between the brain and body.
Robot-assisted therapy uses a robot to help someone with movement through repetitive tasks to improve one’s ability to move on their own and be more independent.

Other rehabilitation techniques, medical treatments, and medicines continue to be researched to help the brain heal. If you are interested in these treatments, speak with your care team. Everyone is unique, and not all treatments are suitable for every person.

You may feel fatigued and need to rest during these activities and treatments. Sometimes, the recovery process can be frustrating when you can’t move or speak as you want to, so you might need to take a break or do an easier activity.

Each person’s recovery is unique. Some people may recover more, while others recover less. You can improve your chances of recovery by repetitively doing meaningful tasks and participating in rehabilitation. We encourage you to start rehabilitation early after your stroke to take advantage of neuroplasticity at its peak.

Learn how Kandu can support your stroke recovery today!

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The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading Regions of the Brain and What They Control

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Connecting with your community

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Connecting with your community

Socializing and finding community can significantly aid in your stroke recovery

Talking and being with your friends and family is an important aspect of stroke recovery that can help stroke survivors recover faster than those who are isolated. Talking with others can help you maintain a sense of emotional support and comfort, which can lessen your risk of depression¹. Studies have shown that socializing can improve functionality post stroke² and may lead to a quicker and more thorough recovery³.
Returning to social activities may feel intimidating or uncomfortable after a stroke and you might notice a shift in the types of interactions you feel comfortable with, but there are ways to ease back into your social life. For example, socializing does not need to include overwhelmingly large groups of people or crowded locations. Start with simple social interactions such as saying hello to your neighbor, walking your dog, or having friends over. Any kind of social interaction you are comfortable with can benefit your mental health and identity.

Maintaining Existing Relationships

You may be busy during your stroke recovery, making it difficult to nurture previous relationships with friends and family. It can also be challenging if your significant other has become your care partner if their new role begins to overshadow your previous relationship. It is important to spend quality time together, even with simple activities such as going out to eat, watching a movie, or spending time outdoors.
It is normal to want to stop seeing people after a stroke. Stroke survivors often tell us that they are embarrassed or don’t feel safe, but pulling away from people who care about you can make you feel more isolated and lead to depression. Depression can cause social withdrawal that may be dangerous to your health. Talking with your family and friends about how you are feeling and when you need help is important.
There is a possibility that you may lose some friendships after a stroke or some relationships may look different, which can lead to feelings of grief and loss. Working through these feelings may take time and patience, but know that you are not alone. Sharing these feelings with professionals or with close ones can help.

Managing Barriers to Socialization

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your recovery or social interactions, start by seeing a close friend or family member that makes you feel comfortable. Consider meeting your friend in a familiar and safe environment that is not overstimulating.
If you are not driving after your stroke, there may be free or discounted transportation options available that can help you go and see friends and family. Friends and family can also come to visit you at your home. Simply visiting, talking on a porch, or walking around your neighborhood are all ways in which you can socialize in your home.
Fatigue and other post-stroke changes may impact your comfort in socializing. Re-engaging in social activities can feel tiring; consider different strategies to maintain a balance between the costs and benefits of socializing. Remember that even if socializing feels different than before your stroke, your interactions with others can be very beneficial in your post-stroke recovery.

Finding New Community

Expanding your community to include new sources of support can also be helpful. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with other survivors in your community, who might share the challenges you are experiencing, can be comforting. Other stroke survivors may also be able to provide valuable advice about socializing after stroke or share their perspectives about the recovery journey in general. Virtual stroke survivor support groups, such as those offered through Kandu, can offer a safe space to socialize with people in the stroke community.
Kandu Connect Groups are facilitated by Kandu Ambassadors– stroke survivors and care partners with lived experience. The Kandu Connect Groups provide participants with a sense of community and belonging to support them on their recovery journey.

Interested in learning more about Kandu?

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Citations

Tsouna-Hadjis E., Vemmos K.N., Zakopoulos N. & Stamatelopoulos S., 2000, ‘First-stroke recovery process: The role of family social support,’ Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 81(7), 881–887. 10.1053/apmr.2000.4435
Glass T.A. & Maddox G.L., 1992, ‘The quality and quantity of social support: Stroke recovery as psycho-social transition,’ Social Science & Medicine 34(2), 1249–1261. 10.1016/0277-9536(92)90317-J
Glass T.A., Matchar D.B., Belyea M. & Feussner J.R., 1993, ‘Impact of social support on outcome in first stroke,’ Stroke; a Journal of Cerebral Circulation 24(1), 64–70. 10.1161/01.STR.24.1.64\

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The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. Continue Reading Regions of the Brain and What They Control

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Regions of the Brain and What They Control

Education

Regions of the Brain and What They Control

The brain helps us understand the world around us and communicate with the rest of our body. It communicates through networks of neurons (brain cells). These communication channels and the ability to understand and use information from the body can be disrupted when someone has a stroke.

The brain is very complex, so how a stroke affects each person is different. The effects of the stroke can depend on the severity, type, and location of the stroke. You can understand what you might experience after a stroke by understanding what each brain region does.

The largest part of the brain is called the cerebrum, and each side is called a hemisphere.

Illustration of a brain highlighting the left hemisphere, showing text that says: Left Hemisphere—Language, affects right side of the body.

You might experience these effects if you have a stroke on the left side of your brain.

Difficulty or inability to move the right side of your body
Changes in how your body feels on the right side
Losing the ability to see things on the right side
Trouble speaking
Difficulty understanding what someone is saying
Challenges with reading and writing
Difficulty learning new things
Tendency to be overly cautious

Illustration of a brain highlighting the right hemisphere, showing text that says: Right Hemisphere—vision, understanding what you see, and affects left side of the body.

You might experience these effects if you have a stroke on the right side of your brain:

Difficulty or inability to move the left side of your body
Changes in how your body feels on the left side
Not being aware of the left side of the body
Losing the ability to see things on the left side
Trouble reading maps and navigating
Difficulty understanding how far or close objects are
Not being able to find everyday objects, like your clothes
Difficulty recognizing parts of your own body
Tendency to be more impulsive or inappropriate

The cerebrum has four main lobes or regions. The images below show the different actions each area controls.

Thinking, memory, behavior, and movement

Frontal Lobe

If you have a stroke in your frontal lobe, the large lobe in the front of your brain, you may have:

Difficulty thinking and making decisions
Trouble moving
Changes in personality and behavior

Language and touch

Parietal Lobe

If you have a stroke in your parietal lobe, you may have:

Changes in feeling touch and pain
Difficulty speaking and understanding speech
Trouble with movement and, knowing where your body is and determining the right versus left side of your body

Vision

Occipital Lobe

If you have a stroke in your occipital lobe or near the back of your brain, you may have:

Lost the ability to see anything on the right or left side with your eyes when you are not moving your head (Homonymous hemianopia)
Difficulty understanding what you are looking at (visual agnosia) or recognizing familiar faces (prosopagnosia)
Partial loss of vision or black spots
Difficulty reading
Complete blindness or the inability to see colors in rare instances

Hearing, learning, and feelings

Temporal Lobe

If you have a stroke in your temporal lobe or the area around your ears, you may have:

Memory difficulties
Trouble understanding and learning
Changes in how you feel (emotions)

Underneath the cerebrum are two more regions of the brain, the cerebellum and the brain stem.

Cerebellum

Balance and coordination

The cerebellum is important for movement because it gets signals from the spinal cord, which helps the body control movements. You might experience these effects if you have a stroke in your cerebellum:

Trouble with smooth and accurate movements (coordination)
Difficulty with balance and walking
Potential headaches, dizziness, and nausea

Illustration of a brain highlighting the brain btem

Brain Stem

Breathing, heart rate and temperature

Your brain stem regulates your breathing, heartbeat, body temperature, blood pressure, and more. The brain stem is associated with the necessary functions for life. You might experience these effects if you have a stroke in your brain stem:

Trouble with smooth and accurate movements (coordination)
Difficulty with balance and walking
Potential headaches, dizziness, and nausea

Strokes in any brain region can affect thinking, memory, mood, and movements. Seizures and epilepsy may also occur after certain types of strokes and are more likely to occur if you have a stroke in the outer layer of the brain (cerebral cortex) or if you had bleeding in your brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

While the general stroke effects associated with each brain region are listed above, each person may have different experiences or effects not listed above.

We encourage you to share any symptoms you are experiencing with your Kandu Navigator so they can help you address them. Your navigator will help you understand what type of stroke you had and how it may be impacting your brain. They will provide you with strategies on how to manage your stroke impairments and connect you to rehabilitation resources specific to your health.

Interested in learning more about the Kandu Program?

Click Here

Peer-Support for Stroke Recovery

Kandu Participants rate our virtual connect groups as one of the most valuable aspects of the Kandu Program. Continue Reading Peer-Support for Stroke Recovery

The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for having a stroke. Continue Reading The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

Woman resting with eyes open on a couch, serene indoor setting.

Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

Although there are some common side effects and impairments after having a stroke it is important to recognize everyone’s experience is unique. Continue Reading Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

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Peer-Support for Stroke Recovery

Education

Peer-Support for Stroke Recovery

Stroke Recovery Support from People Who Understand

Kandu Participants rate our virtual connect groups as one of the most valuable aspects of the Kandu Program. They cite the opportunity to connect with other stroke survivors who are at a similar point in their own recovery journey as “feeling as though they were less alone” and as a sense of “community and belonging”. Connect groups are led by Kandu Ambassadors who understand the physical and emotional challenges of stroke recovery. Connect groups meet weekly via web conferences. Between meetings, participants can communicate with their connect groups through asynchronous messaging on the Kandu App.

In this webcast led by Alana, a Kandu Navigator, Kandu Ambassadors Toni and Dave discuss their commitment to helping participants get the most out of Kandu Connect Groups and the significance of peer-support after stroke.

Kandu Ambassadors are fellow stroke survivors and care partners who have a deep understanding of the effects of stroke. They share their own lived experience and provide guidance to help participants understand the challenges they face. Kandu Ambassadors support participants through their stroke recovery by sharing information and tips for managing life after stroke. The connect groups are an important and popular part of the Kandu Program. Over 83% of Kandu Graduates said that they found value in interacting with the virtual Kandu Connect Groups¹.

Alana Abel, OTD, OTR/L

Alana is a Senior Navigator at Kandu Health. As a clinical navigator, she enjoys connecting with survivors and care partners with a heart-first approach to foster empowerment and tackle challenges to recovery. Alana cherishes each small win with survivors and care partners, whether it is connecting them with a resource or just being the person that has the time to listen.

Toni Hickman

Toni, a music artist and a stroke survivor, is a Kandu Ambassador for stroke survivors in the Kandu Program. Having lived through her own recovery journey and being a care partner for her mother, Toni offers support and inspiration to others facing similar challenges to live their best possible lives after stroke.

Dave Brinkman

Dave is a Kandu Ambassador for care partners, brings experience from supporting his father after a stroke. He is also an occupational therapist who works with stroke survivors and is dedicated to supporting people affected by stroke to adjust to their new normal.

Kandu Health offers remote clinical support through our app, stroke survivor community and team of Kandu Navigators. We provide information, resources, and guidance for stroke survivors and their care partners.

Interested in the Kandu stroke recovery program? Click below to learn more.

More Information

The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for having a stroke. Continue Reading The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

Group of older adults participating in a Tai Chi exercise class outdoors, promoting physical activity to reduce stroke risk.

How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

If you are working with a Kandu Navigator they will assist you in creating a personal recovery plan and identifying resources and support to aid you in your recovery. Continue Reading How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

View All

The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

Education

The Link Between Hypertension and Stroke

?

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is a measurement of the pressure of your blood in your arteries as it is pumped around your body by your heart. The upper or first number (systolic blood pressure) is the pressure created when the heart beats, pushing blood out into the body. The bottom or second number (diastolic blood pressure) is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting in between beats.

?

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is when the pressure in your blood vessels is higher than normal. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it usually presents no symptoms, yet it can lead to severe health complications if left untreated.

Normal versus High Blood Pressure

Sytolic mm Hg (Upper Number)

Blood Pressure Range Chart

Diastolic mm Hg (Lower Number)

According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure over 120/80 is considered high. If your blood pressure is high, your healthcare team may recommend a different diet, exercise, or medication based on how high it is, and any other health issues you have.

High blood pressure means that your heart has to work harder than normal to pump blood around your body. High blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of blood vessels, which increases the chance of narrowing, rupturing, or forming blood clots. This can lead to blockage in the blood vessels that supply the brain, resulting in a stroke.

High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for having a stroke. It affects other parts of the body as well and can lead to loss of vision, heart failure, heart attacks, dementia, and kidney failure.

Hypertension is the #1 risk factor for stroke.
It contributes to around 50% of all strokes.

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

As hypertension often doesn’t have noticeable symptoms, it can be challenging to manage. It can go unnoticed until it causes a severe health problem like a stroke. Strokes can also happen suddenly and without warning. Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and seek medical attention immediately for better outcomes. Some common signs of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, severe headache, loss of balance, and dizziness. Stroke symptoms can be remembered by using the phrase BE FAST.

BEFAST

Recognize the signs of a stroke

Balance

Sudden loss of balance

Eyes

Sudden change in vision in one or both eyes

Illustration of a stroke survivor experiencing lung infections and difficulty breathing.

Face

The face droops on one side

Illustration of a stroke survivor in a wheelchair experiencing discomfort in his arm.

Arm

New arm weakness or numbness on one side

Illustration of a stroke survivor with an arm brace talking

Speech

New slurred or confused speech

Illustration of a woman with a pride flag pin on her top looking at her phone

Time

It’s TIME to call 9-1-1

Only a health professional can determine if you are having another stroke. If you are having a new stroke, every second matters. Call 9-1-1 and seek emergency care for a possible stroke if you experience the following symptoms:

Hypertension Prevention and Management

It’s essential to understand hypertension in order to prevent strokes. By being aware of the signs and symptoms, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and seeking support from healthcare professionals and community resources, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their blood pressure and reduce their risk of stroke.

Together, we can make a positive impact and help prevent strokes in our communities.

Kandu Health offers remote clinical support through our app, stroke survivor community and team of Kandu Navigators. We provide information, resources, and guidance for stroke survivors and their care partners.

Interested in the Kandu stroke recovery program? Click below to learn more.

More Information

Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

Signs of Stroke Related Infections

Infection is common after a stroke and can lead to worse outcomes for the stroke survivor including sepsis and even death. Continue Reading Signs of Stroke Related Infections

View All

Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

Education

Is What I am Experiencing After My Stroke Normal?

Although there are some common side effects and impairments after having a stroke it is important to recognize everyone’s experience is unique. You may have symptoms and impairments that other survivors do not have.

There are three major areas that stroke impacts:

Illustration of a stroke survivor with a cane and a hand brace walking

Physical Changes

Illustration of a woman sitting on a chair with colorful thought bubbles over her head

Cognitive Changes

Illustration of a stroke survivor sitting on a bench and caregiver

Emotional Changes

Physical Changes

Typically, physical changes can be traced to the location in your brain that was most impacted by your stroke. Depending on where the blood supply was affected in your brain you may experience some of the following physical changes:

Fatigue
Vision changes
Challenges moving around due to changes in balance and coordination

Weakness on one side of the body
Difficulty swallowing
Too much muscle tone (spasticity) or too little muscle tone (flaccidity), making them hard to move

Early rehabilitation can help you overcome some of your physical impairments. You can read more about what to expect related to recovery and rehabilitation here.

Cognitive Changes

You may also have changes in how you think and process information. These changes may be referred to as cognitive changes and can include the following:

Difficulty paying attention or concentrating
Trouble problem-solving
Difficulty remembering things

Difficulty recognizing things
Trouble understanding what someone said
Challenges saying what you are thinking

Cognitive changes can be some of the most frustrating impairments after a stroke. It is important to recognize it is normal to be frustrated when you first discover you may be experiencing these challenges.

Emotional Changes

Because stroke affects your brain, it can also affect how you experience emotions. Many survivors experience a range of feelings or emotions after a stroke. It is estimated that 60% of stroke survivors experience depression and 67% experience anxiety. Some feelings you may experience include:

Stress
Sadness or disappointment
Frustration
Irritability
Carelessness

Confusion
Anger
Depression
Anxiety
Grief

At Kandu, we understand the overwhelming nature of stroke and are experienced in supporting stroke survivors as they begin their recovery journey. Your Kandu Navigator can help you identify the symptoms you are experiencing, how to address them and assist you in determining next steps to support your recovery.

Kandu Health offers remote clinical support through our app, stroke survivor community and team of Kandu Navigators. We provide information, resources, and guidance for stroke survivors and their care partners.

Interested in the Kandu stroke recovery program? Click below to learn more.

More Information

How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

Signs of Stroke Related Infections

Infection is common after a stroke and can lead to worse outcomes for the stroke survivor including sepsis and even death. Continue Reading Signs of Stroke Related Infections

Pensive man itting in a clinic, looking worried and clasping his hands, symbolizing anxiety and uncertainty about stroke symptoms.

How Do I know if I am Having a Second Stroke?

About 1 in 4 people, 25% who have had a stroke will have another stroke. It’s important to be able to identify the warning signs. Continue Reading How Do I know if I am Having a Second Stroke?

View All

How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

Education

How Do I Reduce My Risk of a Second Stroke?

Having a stroke can be overwhelming. During your time in the hospital, you may be given a lot of information about reducing your risk of having another stroke.

So, how do you reduce your risk?

The best place to start is with recommendations from your healthcare team. If you are working with a Kandu Navigator they will assist you in creating a personal recovery plan and identifying resources and support to aid you in your recovery.

Your healthcare team may ask you to make changes to your lifestyle and your daily routine after your stroke. These changes can help keep your brain and body healthy. These changes might include:

Blood Pressure

Checking your blood pressure daily. At home blood pressure monitors are readily available.

Exercise

Exercising regularly. Walking three hours a week can lower your chances of a second stroke by up to 43% a recent Harvard Study.

Healthy Eating

Adding nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to your diet. Consider replacing partially hydrogenated cooking oils with avocado or olive oils, and reducing foods with added sugars.

“No” to Smoking

Saying “no” to smoking. Quitting smoking is tough. There are free programs that can help you. Freedom From Smoking® has helped hundreds of thousands of people quit for good and is now available in a variety of formats.

Icon with a crossed-out wine glass, advising limiting alcohol intake to lower stroke risk.

Limit Alcohol

Limiting how much alcohol you drink. Drinking alcohol disrupts your sleep and good sleep. It is essential, it is when your body rests and repairs itself. Try limiting your alcohol late in the evening to start.

Icon of a person in a relaxed posture, highlighting stress management as a key factor in reducing stroke risk.

Manage Stress

Managing stress through a strong support system, community, and connections. Consider relaxation activities such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi.

Kandu Health offers remote clinical support through our app, stroke survivor community and team of Kandu Navigators. We provide information, resources, and guidance for stroke survivors and their care partners.

Interested in the Kandu stroke recovery program? Click below to learn more.

More Information

Signs of Stroke Related Infections

Infection is common after a stroke and can lead to worse outcomes for the stroke survivor including sepsis and even death. Continue Reading Signs of Stroke Related Infections

How Do I know if I am Having a Second Stroke?

About 1 in 4 people, 25% who have had a stroke will have another stroke. It’s important to be able to identify the warning signs. Continue Reading How Do I know if I am Having a Second Stroke?

Elderly man sitting indoors, looking out the window with a thoughtful expression, symbolizing concern or reflection.

How the Brain is Affected by Stroke

During a stroke, disruption of the blood flow to the brain causes cell damage and death where the stroke occurred. to the brain causes cell damage and death where the stroke occurred. Continue Reading How the Brain is Affected by Stroke

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Education

Meal Planning is a powerful tool for bettering your health. By intentionally planning foods to eat, you can significantly reduce your risk of another stroke.

Eating a heart-healthy diet after stroke

Lean Protein

Whole Grains

Fruits and Vegetables

Low-Fat Dairy

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Eating for stroke recovery is also about limiting or avoiding certain foods. Here’s a breakdown of the types of foods to eat less of when prioritizing heart health.

Saturated Fats

Added Sugar

Sodium

Food preparation

Ordering groceries and meals online

Managing food textures

Get support with meal planning.

Get more information and register for Kandu today

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Diabetes and Stroke

Caring for a stroke survivor

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

Education

Diabetes and Stroke

Diabetes is a medical condition involving the hormone insulin. Insulin is a hormone our bodies use to help turn glucose (sugars) in our food into energy.

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes

In type 1 diabetes

In type 2 diabetes

Symptoms of diabetes

Options for support

Managing your diabetes

Foods to Eat

Foods to Limit

“Snack Formula” (Produce+Protein)

Produce

Protein

Healthy Dessert Ideas

Citations

Support for stroke survivors and their care partners

Get more information and register for Kandu today

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Caring for a stroke survivor

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

Connecting with your community

Education

Caring for a stroke survivor

Supporting your loved one after stroke

What is a care partner?

Don’t blame the stroke survivor

Allow them to be where they are.

Try to understand the emotional burden

Remove barriers instead of ‘fixing’

Respect their autonomy

How to be a safe person for a stroke survivor

Listen, don’t fix

Respond with confidence and calm

Offer empathy over advice

Be reliable

Be mindful of your questions

Be clear about your support

Be flexible

Value them for who they are

Understand they’ve had a unique experience

Be patient and let them speak for themselves

Maintain genuine connections

Self-reflect

Not everyone will meet these guidelines perfectly, but striving to be a safe person can greatly support a stroke survivor’s recovery, helping them feel valued, understood, and supported.

Support for stroke survivors and their care partners

Get more information and register for Kandu today

More Articles

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

Connecting with your community

Regions of the Brain and What They Control

Education

How the Brain Heals after a Stroke

What is neuroplasticity?

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2

3

Learn how Kandu can support your stroke recovery today!

More Articles

Hypertension is the #1 risk factor for stroke.
It contributes to around 50% of all strokes.