FAQ

The most common risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. Other risk factors include atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), family history of stroke, age, and a previous stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Understanding and managing these risk factors is key to lowering your chances of having a stroke.

Start by monitoring your blood pressure and working with your doctor to keep it in a healthy range. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. Managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying informed about your personal risk factors can also make a big difference. Even small steps taken today can have a lasting impact on your long-term health.

Yes—up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and proper medical care. Managing blood pressure, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, not smoking, and keeping conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol under control all play a major role. Regular health checkups and early intervention can significantly reduce your risk.

The Stroke Foundation provides a range of support programs tailored for survivors, caregivers, and families. These include peer support groups, educational workshops, rehabilitation resources, and referrals to local and online services. Whether you're adapting to life after a stroke or helping a loved one through recovery, our programs connect you with the practical tools and compassionate community you need.

Yes—if you’re struggling to afford treatment or recovery services, the Stroke Foundation can guide you to financial assistance options. This may include referrals to programs like Dollar For, grants for specialized equipment, or guidance on hospital financial aid. We'll help evaluate your eligibility and connect you with the right resources to ease the financial burden.

Finding support is easy—start at our Helpful Resources page, where you can access downloadable guides, program listings, and links to financial aid opportunities. If you need help navigating eligibility, applications, or next steps, reach out to our team directly. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.

Mental health is a vital part of recovery after a stroke. Many survivors experience emotional changes such as depression, anxiety, or frustration due to physical limitations and lifestyle changes. Addressing these challenges with proper support—through therapy, counseling, or support groups—can greatly improve quality of life and help with the healing process.

Stroke recovery often involves a combination of therapies, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help restore movement, daily function, and communication. Mental health therapy—such as counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)—can help survivors and caregivers process emotional changes, manage stress, and build resilience during recovery.

Yes, the Stroke Foundation connects survivors and caregivers to trusted mental health resources, including online therapy platforms like BetterHelp, community support groups, and downloadable guides. We’re committed to supporting the emotional well-being of everyone affected by stroke. Visit our Helpful Resources page to explore options.

You can make a one-time or recurring donation securely through our website. We also accept gifts by mail and offer options for tribute donations in honor or memory of a loved one. Every contribution helps fund programs that support stroke prevention, recovery, and education.

Yes, the Stroke Foundation is a registered nonprofit organization, and all eligible donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. After donating, you’ll receive a confirmation email and receipt for your records.

Planned giving is a powerful way to support our mission for years to come. You can include the Stroke Foundation in your will, trust, or estate plan, or explore other legacy options like charitable gift annuities or beneficiary designations. Contact us for more information or to speak confidentially with our team.

Absolutely. Sponsoring an event is a meaningful way to demonstrate your commitment to health and community impact. We offer sponsorship opportunities at various levels and work closely with our partners to ensure alignment with your brand and values. Contact us to explore upcoming opportunities.

Yes, we host and participate in a variety of events throughout the year, including awareness walks, educational webinars, community outreach programs, and fundraising initiatives. These events are open to individuals, families, and organizations looking to make a difference. Check our events calendar or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated.

Hosting a fundraiser is a great way to support stroke awareness, prevention, and recovery programs. Whether it's a community walk, workplace challenge, birthday fundraiser, or creative event, we provide resources and guidance to help you get started. Reach out to our team or visit our fundraising page to learn more.

We welcome partnerships with organizations that share our mission to prevent strokes and support survivors. Whether through sponsorships, employee engagement, fundraising campaigns, or cause marketing, we offer customized opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Reach out to our team to explore how we can collaborate.

Companies can get involved in a variety of ways, including hosting workplace giving campaigns, sponsoring events or programs, matching employee donations, or organizing volunteer days. We work with each partner to create opportunities that align with their values and business goals while supporting stroke awareness and recovery.

Yes, we’re proud to highlight the generous support of our partners through our website, social media channels, events, and other marketing materials when appropriate. Recognition opportunities vary depending on the type and level of partnership, and we’re happy to work with you on a plan that acknowledges your contribution.

You can explore a wide range of helpful resources throughout our website, including downloadable guides, recovery tools, and educational materials. Visit our Helpful Resources page for quick access to stroke-related downloads, and check out our blog for ongoing insights, survivor stories, and tips for prevention and recovery. Our goal is to provide easy-to-understand, practical information to support you at every stage of your stroke journey.

Yes, the Stroke Foundation encourages individuals, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to share its resources. Whether you're hosting an event, supporting a loved one, or educating your workplace, our materials are available to help raise awareness and promote stroke prevention and recovery.