Supportive Strides: Co-designing Community-Based Walking Programs with Embedded Socialisation and Peer Support for People after Stroke

Purpose

To co-design a community-based walking program that incorporates social connection to improve physical activity post-stroke.

Methods

A four-stage Integrated Knowledge Translation approach was used. Stage 1: research team (2 stroke survivors, 8 professionals) defined research questions, scope and plan. Stage 2: workshops held with stroke survivors, carers, and health and design professionals to identify important program principles. Stage 3: research team used a Nominal Group Technique to make key decisions and develop the program. Stage 4: program presented to participants; feedback gathered and adaptations made. Workshop findings were iteratively analysed and summarised during sessions.

Results

Twenty-six participants were recruited across stages 2 and 4 (12 stroke survivors, 2 carers, 12 professionals). Key program principles identified in Stage 2 were social support, inclusive environment, motivational support, co-ordination and administrative support. The Supportive Strides program was co-designed to incorporate these principles. Program elements included accessible outdoor walking routes, pre-walk coffee and social connection, peer-support, online group chat, milestone celebrations, and a safety checklist. Following Stage 4 participant feedback, adaptations were incorporated e.g., simpler screening process, include more walking route information.

Conclusions

The co-designed Supportive Strides community-based walking program is ready for testing to improve physical activity and social connection after stroke.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• The Supportive Strides community-based walking program with embedded socialisation and peer support was co-designed by stroke survivors, carers, and health and design professionals

• Socialisation and peer support are considered critical elements for engagement and sustainability of post-stroke physical activity programs

• Inclusive environmental design may be important for outdoor walking activities for stroke survivors

• Tracking progress, celebrating achievements and coaching support are motivators for improving post-stroke physical activity levels