Exploring the experiences of adults with stroke in virtual community-based stroke programs: a qualitative descriptive...

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Stroke significantly contributes to disability, impacting cognitive, physical, and mental health.
• Virtual delivery of stroke programs by community organizations increased post-COVID-19 pandemic.
• Limited research exists on participant experiences and optimal guidelines for virtual stroke programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe stroke survivors' perspectives and experiences in virtual community-based organization (CBO) stroke programs.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to accessing and participating in these virtual programs.
• To gather suggestions for improving virtual CBO stroke program development and delivery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative descriptive design utilizing semi-structured interviews.
• Interviews were conducted via Zoom, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
• Participants were adults who experienced a stroke and attended Canadian virtual CBO stroke programs.

Main Results:

• Twelve participants (32-69 years) identified five themes: motives (peer connection, knowledge), barriers (technology, facilitation), facilitators (remote access, platform features, leader skills).
• Unmet needs included in-person connection and individualized support.
• Suggestions focused on improving program facilitation, content, and format.

Conclusions:

• Virtual CBO stroke programs present opportunities for enhanced participant experiences and outcomes.
• Addressing identified barriers, such as technology inequities and inadequate facilitation, is crucial.
• Implementing participant suggestions can improve the overall access and quality of virtual stroke rehabilitation programs.