Remote provision of 'next steps' exercise class in people with stroke: An online survey of participants' experience

Kumar, Praveen; O'Hanlon, Ellie; Clift, Elinor; Brooks, Tilly; Fry, Becca; Deeks, Andrea

Abstract

Background: Physiotherapy rehabilitation is a fundamental component of multidisciplinary management following stroke, for biopsychosocial exercise benefits and secondary prevention. Bristol After Stroke and the University of the West of England’s Bristol-based ‘Next Steps’ programme provides physiotherapist-led group exercise for people with stroke (PwS). During the COVID-19 pandemic, telerehabilitation (TR) delivery has continued care remotely and virtually, given face-to-face unfeasibility. Physiotherapists must seek insight into service-users’ acceptability to assure service quality, and to contribute to TR improvements and advancements within their practice and the profession
Aim: To gain an understanding of participant acceptability of ‘Next Steps’ delivered remotely, in relation to exercise, communication, technology and accessibility – identified key themes within the literature.
Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional design, whereby primary data was collected through two online surveys, using Qualtrics software, from the population of remote ‘Next Steps’; one for exercising participants and their primary caregivers respectively. Descriptive analysis, and synonym-based word frequency analysis was used for analysis.
Results: Nineteen participants provided a response within the data-collection period. Results demonstrate acceptability of remote ‘Next Steps’, in relation to exercise, technology, communication and accessibility. Issues of individual/hands-on feedback, socialisation and individual preferences are identified challenges. Most participants agreed that remote delivery is a suitable alternative to face-to-face (f2f); however, may only be suitable during COVID-19.
Conclusions: ‘Next Steps’ delivered remotely was acceptable, however further research is required, post-COVID-19, to establish whether ‘Next Steps’ is a suitable alternative when f2f services resume.

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: Welsh Stroke Conference, June 2022
• Start Date: Jun 21, 2022
• End Date: Jun 22, 2022
• Deposit Date: Dec 26, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 11, 2023
• Keywords: Remote Rehab, Stroke Exercise Classes, Telerehab, Patients/ carers perception
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/10274521
• Related Public URLs: https://healthandcareresearchwales.org/about/events/welsh-stroke-conference