Too much sitting in extended bouts in stroke survivors: A qualitative study to inform novel interventions

Introduction: Sedentary behaviour (SB) is any waking behaviour where sitting or lying is the dominant posture and energy expenditure is low. High SB is associated with poor health. Stroke survivors are highly sedentary. Recent guidelines encourage reducing SB after stroke, but how to do this is unknown. This qualitative study aims to better understand the views of stroke survivors on SB, and to inform intervention development.

Method: Independently mobile Scottish stroke survivors are being recruited to participate in the qualitative interview study to explore their views on SB after stroke. The interview topic guide was developed in accordance with the COM-B framework and includes questions on perceived Capability, Opportunity and Motivation to reduce SB after stroke. Interviews are being conducted in the participants’ own home at three months post stroke. Interviews are audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis is used to analyse interview transcripts.

Results: Thirty one participants have been recruited with 22 interviews completed. Mean age was 66.4 years (SD=15.6years; 17 male). Member checking and development of the analysis framework is ongoing, with the COM-B model providing a useful tool to guide the analysis process. The concepts of the model including capability (psychological and physical), motivation (processes that energise and direct behaviour) and opportunity (physical opportunities afforded by the environment and social opportunity) are proving relevant to stroke survivor SB. Preliminary findings will be available by November 2016.

Conclusion: This work will inform a comprehensive theoretical and evidence based intervention strategy to target SB in stroke survivors.