After a stroke, you may not be able to do everything you used to. But there are still simple ways you can stay active:

• Rake leaves or work in the garden.

• Play with children or grandchildren.

• Work on a hobby.

• Park farther away from building entrances and walk.

• Sweep or vacuum your living space.

• Use the stairs instead of the elevator. If walking up is too strenuous, you can start by walking down. 

• If walking is hard, try stretching exercises or swimming.

Walking is great exercise. It’s free, easy, and all you need is a good pair of shoes. Start with short walks. Then go a little farther each week. The tips below can help:

• Warm up. Start off with a few minutes of strolling. Then walk at a brisker pace.

• Walk every chance you get. Walk to do errands, for fun, or to visit friends. Visit a local park or explore your neighborhood.

• Take a friend along. Having company can make it more fun.

• Walk farther each week. Try walking a little farther or longer each week. You may be surprised by how fast you improve!

If you’re new to exercising, it’s normal to feel a little sore afterward. But you should stop right away if you:

• Have trouble breathing.

• Feel dizzy or extremely tired.

• Have sharp pain.

Some days it may seem hard to be active. Plan ways to keep going anyway. Your health and life are on the line. Make a list of things that might keep you from exercising. Then write down what you can do to get around those things. 

It’s much easier for your loved one to be active when you join in. Try these tips:

• Go for walks together.

• Ask your loved one to join in during activities, such as making dinner.

• If he or she starts making excuses, suggest ways to overcome the roadblocks.

• Cheer every improvement!