Physical activity patterns in independently mobile adult stroke survivors: an in-depth exploratory, observational study

Social/community activities contribute to incidental physical activity, which may help prevent secondary stroke. This research aims to explore stroke survivor activity patterns, physical activity levels, and self-efficacy. An exploratory observational study in a cohort of community-dwelling stroke survivors was conducted. Data were collected with accelerometers, activity diaries, and the Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale. Pre-specified categories were used to describe activity context. Pearson’s correlation and Kruskal–Wallis analyses were used to analyse physical activity relative to self-efficacy and time of day. Forty-seven stroke survivors were recruited (47% female, aged 76 years (IQR 65–83)). Most awake time (81%) was spent in the home. Structured exercise and community and/or social activities were efficient forms of activity and accounted for 17.7% and 23.2% of steps/day, and 2.5% and 14.1% of time, respectively. Participants were most active in the afternoon and morning compared with the evening (<i>p</i> = 0.005 and <i>p</i> = 0.045). Community ambulators had higher self-efficacy scores compared to household ambulators (<i>p</i> = 0.007). Stroke survivors can be active via structured exercise, as well as engaging in outdoor social and community activities. Those who reported higher levels of self-efficacy were more active. Health professionals should consider these factors when promoting physical activity during rehabilitation. Social and community activities are an efficient way for stroke survivors to accumulate physical activity; therefore, healthcare professionals should encourage return to these activities for secondary stroke prevention. Because self-efficacy is positively associated with physical activity levels, healthcare professionals need to assess and develop self-efficacy when aiming to increase physical activity levels in stroke survivors. When prescribing physical activity, health professionals should consider that stroke survivors are more likely to be active in the morning and afternoon compared to the evening.