Sedentary behaviour in stroke survivors: a qualitative (observation and interview) study involving stroke survivors, caregivers and staff

Sarah Morton, Claire Fitzsimons, Gillian Mead, Jennifer Hall, David Clarke, Anne Forster

Research output: Contribution to journalSpecial issuepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Introduction: Stroke survivors can spend up to 80% of their day in prolonged sedentary behaviour
(s) (sitting/lying/reclining). Interventions tailored to the needs of stroke survivors to support reducing
or breaking up sedentary behaviours and improve outcomes are needed. This study aims to understand current behaviour (s) of stroke survivors and existing practices within stroke services.
Methods: (1) Non-participant observations in 2 UK (England, Scotland) stroke services, each including a stroke unit and linked community service (132.5 hours); (2) 59 semi-structured interviews with
staff, stroke survivors and their caregivers to explore capabilities, opportunities and motivations associated with reducing sedentary behaviours. Field-note data were thematically analysed. Interview
data were analysed using the framework approach.
Results: Preliminary findings indicate that the physical and social environment, perceptions of stroke
survivors’ physical and psychological capability to move, and routinised practices enacted by staff,
facilitate an expectation to be sedentary in the inpatient setting. This is often carried over when stroke
survivors leave hospital. However, staff, stroke survivors and caregivers report they recognise the
value of reducing sedentary behaviour after stroke and want to learn about safe and appropriate and
methods for doing this. Opportunities exist to incorporate a reduction in sedentary behaviour within
existing routine activities of stroke survivors, caregivers and staff.
Conclusion: Efforts to reduce sedentary behaviours in stroke survivors are recognised as necessary
and potentially beneficial for improving long-term outcomes. Findings from this study will inform a coproduction study to develop an intervention intended to reduce and break up sedentary behaviours
and contribute to improved health outcomes in stroke survivors.
Original languageEnglish
Article number229
Pages (from-to)56
Number of pages57
JournalInternational Journal of Stroke
Volume13
Issue number3s
Publication statusPublished - 2019

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • stroke
  • sedentary behaviour

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Sedentary behaviour in stroke survivors: a qualitative (observation and interview) study involving stroke survivors, caregivers and staff'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this