Baptist Health stroke support group return with new schedule and location; first meeting Jan. 8

FORT SMITH — Baptist Health-Fort Smith is bringing back its stroke support group in January. The first meeting will be held at 11 a.m. Jan. 8 in the Marvin Altman Fitness Center.

The support group will offer education, encouragement and community for stroke survivors, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about stroke recovery and prevention, according to a news release from Baptist Health.

The January meeting will feature a special, interactive focus to kick off the new year. Members of Baptist Health’s team will lead a fun, family friendly activity designed to support cognitive skills such as hand-eye coordination using a soft, pillow-like “hot potato” game that is engaging for all ages, according to the release.

“Baptist Health’s stroke support group provides education, encouragement, and community for stroke survivors and their families,” said Amy Hughes, registered nurse and stroke lead quality coordinator. “Each month features expert speakers and relevant topics designed to support recovery, promote awareness, and empower those impacted by stroke.”

The session will also include a brief educational overview on how to recognize and respond if someone experiences seizure-like activity, offering practical information for both stroke survivors and caregivers, the release states.

This year’s meetings will feature a new date, time, and location. Meetings will be held the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. at the Marvin Altman Fitness Center. January’s meeting is an exception and will be held on the second Thursday due to holiday. July’s meeting will be on July 9 due to the July 4th holiday, the release states.

The stroke support group is designed to support survivors and their families through expert-led discussions and practical education. Monthly topics will include functional mobility exercises, care after a stroke, foods for brain health, and recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke. Caregivers and community members seeking to better understand stroke are encouraged to attend.

The meetings are free and open to the public, and no RSVP is required, the release states. Participants may also attend virtually by visiting baptist-health.co/StrokeSupport.

For more information, call (479) 441-4205.