Life Flora Hospital took their message to the people this Stroke Awareness Week to educate members of the public about the signs and symptoms, and the most common causes of strokes.

Stroke Awareness Week is held annually from October 29 to November 3, and according to marketing and communications officer Lauren van Zanten, it presents an ideal opportunity for the hospital to reach out to the community.

This year, neurosurgeon Dr Ruan Marais and Life EMS paramedic Hentie Malan paid a visit to Kruinpark Retirement Village on Friday, November 21, to discuss strokes, how to identify them, and what immediate action must be taken whenever you or someone else is having a stroke or showing symptoms consistent with a stroke.

Dr Marais explained in detail what a stroke is, common causes of stroke, and how it is most often triggered, while paramedic Malan spoke at length about emergency preparedness and response for stroke victims.

The two were kept very busy by the elderly, who were keen to ask questions about the condition, which, according to Marais, becomes much more common as people progress in age.

Following the talks, Kruinpark residents were treated to complimentary blood pressure and glucose screenings, expertly carried out by Life Flora nurses, and a warm cup of coffee or tea.

More than 75 residents made full use of the opportunity to engage with Dr Marais and Hentie and the Life Flora Hospital nurses.