Article

OBJECTIVES: To explore whether a pilot secondary stroke prevention group program
for community-dwelling chronic stroke survivors assisted participants in
modifying their lifestyle to reduce their risk of secondary stroke. DESIGN:
A mixed methods study (quantitative and qualitative). SUBJECTS:
Twenty-two community dwelling, chronic stroke survivors. INTERVENTION: The
Masterstroke program incorporated a secondary prevention stroke group program
over a 9-week period with two 2-h sessions weekly (1 hour for education and 1
hour for exercise). The exercise component incorporated fitness, strength,
mobility and balance and education focused on secondary stroke prevention whilst
also providing chronic condition self-management support. Main measures: Timed Up
and Go (TUG), Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Fat and Fibre Barometer, The Stroke
and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale (SaQoL-39), and questionnaires for salt intake
and stroke knowledge. Qualitative outcomes were participants' perceptions. Data
analysis involved an inductive thematic approach with constant comparison.
RESULTS: There were insufficient participants for results to reach statistical
significance in all categories, however, statistically significant results where
achieved with regards to knowledge, TUG, salt intake and quality of life (QoL)
scores. Qualitative responses explored participants' experience of the
Masterstroke program; results confirmed increases in knowledge about stroke and
exercise tolerance, successfulness of a group program and lifestyle modification
post stroke. CONCLUSIONS: Participation in the Masterstroke program for community
dwelling stroke survivors resulted in significant improvements in knowledge,
functional balance, dietary behaviours and quality of life. Qualitative
interviews support the participants' implementation of lifestyle changes
essential for reducing risks of secondary stroke. Results support the utilisation
of this model and warrants rigorous investigation regarding long-term impacts of
an education and exercise program on community dwelling stroke survivors.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: * A program which incorporates exercise and
education in a group setting may improve health-related quality of life and
functional performance for community dwelling, chronic stroke survivors. * It is
feasible for a multidisciplinary team to implement a secondary stroke prevention
group program for community dwelling, chronic stroke survivors.

Langue : ANGLAIS