Sierra Vista Medical Center Uses Painting for Stroke Therapy

Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center announces the Central Coast’s inaugural Strokes for Stroke art therapy and painting class for stroke survivors and their caregivers. The event takes place on Tuesday, August 8, 2017, at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Strokes for Stroke, a program of the American Heart/American Stroke Association, encourages stroke survivors to participate in stroke rehabilitation through art. This creative class, led by a local artist, helps those recovering from a stroke by stimulating brain function and improving hand-eye coordination. Research shows that painting and art therapy can be an enjoyable way to enhance rehabilitation for stroke patients. The event also gives stroke survivors and caregivers an opportunity to socialize with others who share similar interests and experiences. All levels of skill and mobility are invited to participate.  

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is one of the leading causes of death and serious, long-term disability in the United States. Every year, almost 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke, one every 40 seconds.  Stroke survivors often face difficulty with coordination and in many cases, depression. A 2015 study from the National Institute of Health showed that creative art therapy combined with conventional physical therapy can significantly decrease depression, improve physical functions and increase quality of life compared with physical therapy alone.

Anyone interested in participating in the Strokes for Stroke painting class should call (844) 316-0276 for more information and to register. The event is free to stroke survivors and includes a tour of the museum and a heart healthy lunch. Transportation will be provided from Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center so as to avoid any parking hassles.

In 2011, Sierra Vista earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for certification as a Primary Stroke Center. The hospital is also recognized by the American Heart/American Stroke Association with their Get With The Guidelines Stroke Care Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.