COVID-19 support

The CRSN has created this page to list some of the relevant COVID-related resources for stroke survivors and caregivers at this difficult time. These have been compiled in response to the pandemic, but there are many more resources that you should see. Click on the toolbar above for stroke care information, guides, and peer support pages. 

If you or your loved one is having a symptom of stroke, call 911. Don't drive, call 911 F.A.S.T.  Treatment will begin in an ambulance while travelling to a stroke hospital.

• Aphasia Institute Pictographs  Link to Participics related to COVID-19 This template facilitates a conversation about COVID-19 and isolation for those who need communication support. It includes information about physical distancing, and who to call in case of emergencies. To access other editable templates, visit the Aphasia Intstitute website at https://www.participics.ca/

• Champlain Community Support Network - COVID-19 Support Services from this network include pharmacy & food delivery, Meals on Wheels, telephone support, transportation options, and dementia support.

• Community and Therapy Services for Stroke Survivors in Ottawa - we have attached this week's listing of private therapies available to persons with stroke. (As of October 1, 2020)

• Heart and Stroke Foundation: Dr. Cindy Yip, director of Data, Knowledge Management and Heart Program for Heart & Stroke, provides a summary of information on COVID 19 and precautions for people living with heart disease or stroke.

• Heart and Stroke Foundation Coronavirus Resources- Information to help deal with the COVID-19 crisis for patients and caregivers living with heart disease or stroke. Includes medical & social services, financial assistance, peer support, physical activity & nutrition, and Government of Canada updates

• Heart and Stroke Foundation Webinars: Click here for the COVID-19 Webinars for People with Lived Experience series  

• Handwashing technique for people with stroke and a weak/flaccid arm: this video was created by an Occupational Therapist at Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Click here to watch the demonstration.

• March of Dimes Canada: The Stroke Recovery Association of BC and March of Dimes Canada are offering several virtual programs to continue to work on your recovery and meet other peers! Click here for the information sheet with instructions on how to join.

• Mental Health Resources, Ottawa Public Health: Caregivers often don't take the time for self-care as they work to improve the health of others. It is normal to feel stress at this time and for this situation to affect mental health. Click here for a listing of some of the Mental Health Resources available to you.

• Mental Health Resources - Counselling Connect: provides free access to a same-day or next-day phone or video counselling session. This service is for children, youth, adults and families in Ottawa and the surrounding area. Click here to book a session

• Mental Health Resources - Togetherall: Click here for an online peer-to-peer support community for your mental health. Trained practitioners are available 24/7.

• The University of Ottawa Heart Institute has compiled a list of resources to help keep patients informed and stay active and healthy during this difficult time. Click here for heart-healthy resources for secondary prevention like exercise (videos etc), nutrition, stress management and more.

• Virtual (online) Healthcare Sessions: many health appointments are being offered online and not in person. The Heart and Stroke Foundation has prepared a guide to help you make the most of that time. Click here for your guide to efficient and effective virtual healthcare sessions.