The TakeAway with Johanne Kent: Living Well After Stroke: Small changes, big impact
As both a stroke survivor and a nurse, Jo understands the challenges of life after stroke from two perspectives.
In this The TakeAway interview, Jo explains how the Living Well After Stroke program helps people take control of the things they can change, reduce their risk of another stroke, and connect with others who truly understand the journey.
StrokeLine's Joanne Kent runs the Living Well After Stroke sessions, helping stroke survivors and their families build confidence, access support and navigate life after stroke.
Why is the Living Well After Stroke program so valuable? (0:04)
Jo has always valued living a healthy lifestyle. As a nurse, she'd seen the impact poor health could have, and after experiencing a stroke caused by a vertebral artery dissection, she became even more committed to focusing on the things she could control.
While she couldn't change what caused her stroke, she could choose how she moved forward. Jo believes the Living Well After Stroke program gives people the knowledge, support and confidence to improve their health and reduce their risk of another stroke.
"I can't control what happened... but I can make the most of my health going forward."
How does the program help people improve their health? (1:10)
The program focuses on education and practical support. Participants learn about the health behaviours that can improve overall wellbeing and help reduce the risk of another stroke.
Rather than trying to change everything at once, the program encourages people to focus on one achievable goal at a time.
"We focus on the health behaviours that we can control that can improve our health."
How does the online program work? (1:31)
The Living Well After Stroke program is delivered online via Zoom in small groups of up to five participants.
Jo says the small group size means everyone has the opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences and receive individual support.
Because it's online, people can join from anywhere in Australia using a phone, tablet or computer with internet access.
"It's online, up to five individuals per session... and they can log in from anywhere."
Many people worry about having another stroke. How does the program help? (2:23)
Jo understands this fear personally.
The program helps participants identify one modifiable risk factor they'd like to improve and supports them to work towards that goal.
Rather than focusing on what can't be changed, the program encourages people to concentrate on the things they can control.
"While we understand that fear is real, let's focus on the things that we can control."
Does the small group environment make a difference? (3:18)
Absolutely.
Jo says one of the biggest strengths of the program is the support participants give one another.
Although every stroke is different, people often find comfort in speaking with others who understand the challenges of life after stroke.
That shared understanding helps reduce feelings of isolation and builds confidence.
"People really value hearing about the experience of other people."
Can carers or family members join the sessions? (4:22)
Yes.
The program is designed to be inclusive, and carers, family members or support people are welcome to attend if participants would find that helpful.
This can be particularly valuable for people living with aphasia or communication difficulties.
"Support people are always welcome."
What are the most common challenges people are working on? (4:58)
Jo says diet and exercise are common goals, but the biggest challenge many people face is feeling overwhelmed.
Many participants know they want to improve their health but aren't sure where to begin.
The program helps break those goals into manageable steps, making positive changes feel achievable.
"We start with one... trying to keep it simple and supported."
What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining? (6:23)
Jo encourages anyone who is unsure to simply give it a try.
The program is free, supportive, accessible and designed to meet people where they are - without judgment or pressure.
If people have questions before signing up, they're encouraged to contact StrokeLine 1800 787 653.
"There's no judgment, there's no expectation. It's all a very supportive environment to help you improve your health."
Need more information?
The Living Well After Stroke program is free and available online, making it accessible no matter where you live in Australia.
If you'd like to learn more or speak with someone about whether the program is right for you, call StrokeLine on 1800 787 653.