Web information systems for stroke survivors: Design and methodological challenges

A cerebrovascular attack (CVA) disrupts blood flow in the brain and can have consequences for survivors including neurological deficits (motor, sensory, language) and difficulties performing daily tasks. After immediate treatment, rehabilitation is crucial for survivors to regain functionality and independence. Digital rehabilitation offers increased access, intensity, and resource availability. However, there are limited resources for non-English speakers. Moreover, for existing resources, it might be difficult for patients and their support networks to assess their quality and usefulness. This paper presents a digital intervention in the form of a web-based platform, aimed at stroke patients and caregivers in Colombia. The platform features the curation and aggregation of digital resources to assist in the rehabilitation of stroke survivors at home. The paper proposes a series of methodological and design principles that should offer stable ground for practitioners and researchers interested in building tools for stroke survivors or users with disabilities.