Stroke does not choose. But we can reduce the risk.
Cardiovascular diseases can change lives in an instant—not only for the individual, but for the entire family. Their consequences are also felt by the healthcare system and society as a whole. That is why the key question is what we can do before the disease even occurs. An important part of the answer is movement, prevention, and physiotherapy.
On the occasion of World Physiotherapy Day, which is marked worldwide on 8 September, Alma Mater will organize the event Physiotherapy in the Prevention of Stroke and Cardiovascular Diseases the day before, on 7 September 2026, at its Maribor location, Slovenska ulica 17.
This year's central theme is cardiovascular diseases and stroke, with special emphasis on the role of physiotherapy and physical activity in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. According to World Physiotherapy, one in four people will experience a stroke during their lifetime, while 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week can reduce the risk of stroke by 25 percent.
The event will highlight a question that is important for all generations: How can we preserve health, physical capacity, and independence for as long as possible and reduce the risk of diseases that can fundamentally change our lives?
9.00 | Practical exercise session
Alma Mater physiotherapy students, under the expert guidance of lecturer Tatjana Horvat, MSc, and Assist. Prof. Tine Kovačič, PhD, will conduct a practical exercise session with older female participants.
Location: Lecture Room 2AB
9.45 | Lecture: The role of physiotherapy in the prevention of stroke and cardiovascular diseases
Assist. Prof. Tine Kovačič, PhD, will present the importance of physiotherapy, movement, and physical activity in preventing stroke and cardiovascular diseases.
Location: Large Lecture Hall
10.30 | Press conference
The following speakers will discuss the importance of prevention and the role of physiotherapy and cooperation among health professions:
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Assist. Prof. Tine Kovačič, PhD – Head of the Health Sciences study program and President of the Slovenian Physiotherapists Association,
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Assoc. Prof. Barbara Toplak Perovič, PhD – Secretary General of Alma Mater Europaea University and Dean of the ECM Faculty,
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Senior Lecturer Mladen Herc – Head of the Physiotherapy study program (1st cycle),
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Tatjana Horvat, MSc – Lecturer at Alma Mater Europaea University,
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Matej Koprivnik, PhD, MSc in Health and Social Management, Grad. Physiotherapist, Spec. – Neurology Clinic, UKC Maribor.
Location: Studio 1B
During the event | Information stand
In front of the entrance to Alma Mater, students will present the importance of physiotherapy, movement, and prevention to visitors and distribute informational materials.
World Physiotherapy Day 2026 Message
This year's World Physiotherapy Day highlights that movement is not only important for well-being, but is also an important part of prevention. Physiotherapists are therefore not only important in rehabilitation after illness. As experts in movement and physical activity, they help people safely increase their physical activity, reduce risk factors, and maintain mobility, physical capacity, and independence through individually tailored exercise.
This year's global message is clear: we do not have to wait for illness before we start taking care of our health. With movement and timely prevention, we can take an important step today toward a healthier, more active, and more independent future.
