How Kurri Kurris ESTEEM program is transforming stroke recovery

National Stroke Week reminds us that recognising the signs of stroke can save a life, while access to the right recovery support can help a survivor rebuild it. When a stroke strikes, every minute matters. During National Stroke Week, the Stroke Foundation is calling on Australians to become F.A.S.T. heroes by learning three common signs of stroke: facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty, and knowing it is time to call triple zero (000) immediately. A stroke is always a medical emergency, but for survivors, the emergency response is only the beginning. After hospital care, recovery can continue for months or years as people rebuild strength, confidence and independence. At Kurri Kurri Hospital Day Centre, Maitland Community Care Services (MCCS) delivers ESTEEM After Stroke, a free 10-week group program that brings stroke survivors together twice a week to exercise, socialise and think creatively. Each session features physiotherapist-designed exercises, social time over morning tea and creative activities like visual arts or movement to music. These activities engage participants physically, socially and cognitively in a supportive environment. ESTEEM (Exercising, Socialising and Thinking: an Environmental Enrichment Model) is informed by research on how a combination of physical, cognitive, and social activities may support recovery and quality of life after a stroke. Robert Sams, ADSSI Limited's Acting Chief Executive Officer (which MCCS is part of), said National Stroke Week was an opportunity to consider both sides of the stroke journey. "Knowing the F.A.S.T. signs and calling triple zero immediately can save someone's life," he said. "But we must also think about what happens after that person leaves the hospital. Programs like ESTEEM offer a supportive environment for stroke survivors to rebuild strength, confidence, and social ties. Person-centred community care helps people do what matters to them." Dr Heidi Janssen, Hunter New England Local Health District Clinical Stroke Researcher, said ESTEEM brought together several important elements of recovery. "Recovery is different for every stroke survivor," she said. The ESTEEM Program, which offers exercise, socialisation and creative activity, may help stimulate the brain and body after stroke. "There is emerging evidence that this combination of activities can support better stroke recovery. People who have come to the ESTEEM Program have reported that it helps them try new things, make new friends and build self confidence, all of which is extremely important after the life-changing event of a stroke." Activities are adapted to individual abilities, ensuring safe, meaningful participation. The program offers opportunities to practise movement, rediscover creativity, build relationships and share experiences. Margot Miller, a stroke survivor and ESTEEM participant, highly recommends the program. "It has helped my recovery from the stroke mentally, emotionally and physically," she said. Knowing the F.A.S.T. signs can save a life. Meaningful recovery close to home can help rebuild it, which is one way MCCS lives its promise to help people live their best life with care at home. To learn more, visit mccs.org.au/strokerecoverymaitland or call 4932 5755.