SINGAPORE – A New Chapter in Stroke Rehabilitation

Imagine facing the daunting challenge of climbing stairs after a stroke. That's the reality Maya Seah, a 44-year-old stroke survivor, faced after suffering a haemorrhagic stroke in 2017, leading to significant physical and communicative limitations. However, her resilience shines as she embraces physical activities again, such as dragon boating and hitting the gym, proving that rehabilitation is not just possible, but also empowering.

Recently, Maya participated in a groundbreaking pilot training programme launched by the Singapore National Stroke Association (SNSA) and the Singapore Institute of Technology. This initiative, which kicked off in October 2023, aims to foster a more inclusive environment in ActiveSG gyms and swimming pools, specifically designed for stroke survivors and individuals with disabilities.

The programme aligns with Singapore’s Disability Sports Masterplan 2024 and is a response to the expressed needs of both stroke survivors and fitness professionals. Surveys have shown that stroke survivors are eager to be fit, while fitness trainers wish to better understand how to assist those with disabilities. Associate Professor Shamala Thilarajah, president of SNSA, emphasized the importance of building an ecosystem that facilitates communication among hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and gyms.

Identifying Challenges for Stroke Survivors

One significant finding from the surveys highlighted that many stroke survivors struggle with adjusting equipment heights or maintaining balance while exercising due to muscle weakness. Some gyms are equipped to assist, but many are not. This programme ensures that all ActiveSG facilities will have trainers ready to provide the necessary assistance.

Held over two months, the workshops brought together an array of professionals, including fitness instructors, physiotherapists from various hospitals, and doctors from the “Exercise is Medicine” movement. Participants learned crucial techniques in communication, safety, and adapting exercises for individuals with diverse abilities, coupled with hands-on practical sessions.

Voices of Caregivers and Survivors

Maya’s husband, Melvin Ye, voiced the concerns many caregivers feel, indicating that the availability of trained personnel alleviates their worries about the safety and support for their loved ones. Active participation in exercise has been a mixed bag for Maya; while some gym-goers have been patient and helpful, others have displayed impatience during her longer-than-usual workout sessions.

The initiative aims not only to educate trainers but also to instill confidence in stroke survivors like Catherine Lee, who suffered an ischaemic stroke in 2020. Now at 65, she is committed to staying active through tailor-made exercise routines, further reinforcing the crucial role of such programmes in ensuring continuous movement and rehabilitation.

Transforming Fitness Instructors' Roles

One of the programme's standout participants, ActiveSG’s senior fitness instructor Victor Ng, shared his newfound insights into assisting stroke survivors effectively. He recalled feeling uncertain about how to help a gym member with slurred speech but has since learned invaluable skills such as using gestures and simple yes-or-no questions to facilitate communication.

This transformation is pivotal; as fitness instructors adapt their approaches, they become not just trainers, but essential partners in the recovery journey of stroke survivors. With this pilot programme, Singapore is paving the way for other countries to follow suit, underscoring the pressing need for awareness, training, and support for individuals striving to reclaim their physical capabilities post-stroke.

Looking Ahead: A Fitness Revolution?

Will this initiative lead a fitness revolution that reshapes how gyms cater to rehabilitation needs? Only time will tell, but the first step towards inclusivity has certainly been taken. Stay tuned!