Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: Dec 12, 2023
Date Accepted: Mar 11, 2024
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
A Community Needs Assessment and Implementation Planning for a Community Exercise Program for Survivors of Stroke: A Protocol
ABSTRACT
Background:
Physical Activity (PA) and exercise are important aspects of maintaining health. People with mobility impairments, including survivors of stroke, are less likely to exercise and at greater risk of developing or worsening chronic health conditions. Increasing accessible, desired options for exercise may address the gap in available physical activity programs, provide an opportunity for continued services after rehabilitation, and cultivate social connection for people after stroke and others with mobility impairments.
Objective:
The aim of this study protocol is to evaluate community needs and resources for general and group exercise for adults living with mobility impairments with initial emphasis on survivors of stroke in Richland County, South Carolina. Results will inform a pilot hybrid type I effectiveness and implementation pilot of an evidence-based group exercise program for survivors of stroke.
Methods:
The exploration and preparation phases of the EPIS (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation and Sustainment) implementation model guide the study. A community needs assessment will evaluate the demographics of the community, and the needs and desires of survivors of stroke through qualitative semi-structured interviews, a focus group, and a survey. An accessibility tool will be used to evaluate potential fitness center sites. Qualitative data will be evaluated using content analysis and supported by mean survey results to inform evidence-based exercise program selection, adaptations, and pilot preparation. Pilot outcome measures for participants, process and program levels will be identified. Conclusion: Performing thorough evaluation and preparation prior to implementation of a community exercise program will enhance its ability to be successful, valued and sustained in the community.
Citation
