Physical activity patterns in independently mobile adult stroke survivors: an in-depth exploratory, observational study

Abstract

Purpose: Social/community activities contribute to incidental physical activity, which may help prevent secondary stroke. This research aims to explore stroke survivor activity patterns, physical activity levels, and self-efficacy. Materials and methods: An exploratory observational study in a cohort of community-dwelling stroke survivors was conducted. Data were collected with accelerometers, activity diaries, and the Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale. Pre-specified categories were used to describe activity context. Pearson’s correlation and Kruskal–Wallis analyses were used to analyse physical activity relative to self-efficacy and time of day. Results: Forty-seven stroke survivors were recruited (47% female, aged 76 years (IQR 65–83)). Most awake time (81%) was spent in the home. Structured exercise and community and/or social activities were efficient forms of activity and accounted for 17.7% and 23.2% of steps/day, and 2.5% and 14.1% of time, respectively. Participants were most active in the afternoon and morning compared with the evening (p = 0.005 and p = 0.045). Community ambulators had higher self-efficacy scores compared to household ambulators (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Stroke survivors can be active via structured exercise, as well as engaging in outdoor social and community activities. Those who reported higher levels of self-efficacy were more active. Health professionals should consider these factors when promoting physical activity during rehabilitation.