How can caregivers, family members and friends help a stroke survivor?
Let them know you are willing to listen. Often, all it takes is for you to be there and available for them.
One of the most difficult challenges a stroke survivor faces is losing his/her independence. As loved ones, it is natural that you would want to help stroke survivors as much as you can. Rather than doing everything for your family member, try encouraging them to give things a go and practise together with them as you go along. This will help them feel that despite their stroke, they are still capable in meeting some of their needs on their own. This in turns boosts their self-esteem, mood and outlook about their recovery. Speak to your rehabilitation therapists to learn more.
Being active can help to improve to mood of your loved one. Doing things together can help to encourage your family member or friend.
Caregiving can be emotionally stressful. Do ensure that you get enough rest and look after your own emotional health. You can also find out about caregiver support from community resources such as Singapore National Stroke Association (SNSA) or Stroke Support Station (S3).
Where can I get support?
 | Singapore National Stroke Association (SNSA) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering stroke survivors and their caregivers by providing comprehensive support, education, and resources. SNSA serves as a lifeline for those affected by stroke, offering practical assistance, emotional support, and a sense of community during their recovery journey. The association actively raises awareness about stroke prevention and recovery, organises critical psychosocial wellness programmes, and fosters connections between survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Through its initiatives, SNSA strives to enhance the quality of life for stroke survivors, advocate for their needs, and build an inclusive society where no one faces the challenges of stroke alone. |
Website: http://www.snsasg.org Email: contact@snsa.org.sg Hotline: +65 8125 1446 | |
 | Founded in 2015, Stroke Support Station (S3) is Singapore’s first and only community-based agency focused solely on stroke recovery and wellness. S3 supports survivors and caregivers after hospital discharge with a unique blend of technology-enabled therapy, conventional therapy, and its signature S3 Wellness Programmes—designed to enhance cognitive, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Beyond recovery, S3 promotes stroke prevention and active ageing through outreach, volunteer engagement, and community initiatives under its Active Ageing Centre (AAC). S3 is also home to an Innovation Lab that drives co-created solutions to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors, through collaboration with social innovators, clinicians, and caregivers. S3 will also be launching Singapore’s first stroke-focused Adaptive Gym in Q1 of 2026. |
Website: http://www.s3.org.sg/ Email: info@s3.org.sg Hotline: +65 6473 3500 | |
Article available Chinese, Malay and Tamil.
For more information on how to better manage your stroke recovery journey, visit Stroke E-Resources.
Contributed By
- An initiative by the Stroke Services Improvement Team in collaboration with all public healthcare institutions.