Attitudes and use patterns for mobile technology and upper extremity home exercises in stroke survivors in the United States

Abstract

Introduction The use of mobile technology (MT) in home-based occupational therapy is expected to continue growing. This study describes daily use patterns for MT and upper extremity (UE) home exercise programs (HEPs) for community-dwelling stroke survivors in the United States. Method Cross-sectional survey. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate comparisons. Results N = 61 (30 stroke and 31 controls). Individuals with stroke had similar levels of knowledge, skill, and use of MT compared with non-disabled age-matched adults. Stroke participants used MT more frequently for information searching, social media, and reminders compared to control participants. Stroke participants were motivated to improve UE function (93.3%) and reported a need for additional HEP training (56.7%). Perceived facilitators to improve UE use included talking to peers (73.3%), getting more information (73.3%), and talking to a therapist (63.3%). Conclusions MT may have multiple potential benefits when integrated into occupational therapy practice including supporting instrumental ADLs, facilitating social connection, and increasing adherence to UE HEPs. Future work should focus on maximizing adherence and providing performance feedback through the use of social media to promote peer support and consistent remote communication using text messaging, phone calls, or video calls to deliver information and reminders on exercises.

The use of home-based digital technology to support post-stroke upper limb rehabilitation: A scoping review

“…Of the remaining, 1408 were excluded after title and/or abstract screening, leaving 113 articles for full-text review. Thirty-seven full articles were determined to be irrelevant in reporting the use of home-based digital technology for upper limb rehabilitation of stroke patients, leaving 76 articles 12…”

“…Twenty-two studies 12,14,20,21,24,25,30,34,37,48,50,51,60,61,67,73–75,80,86,91,94 used a mobile technology or a mobile application as part of their intervention for home-based upper limb rehabilitation with stroke patients. Mobile technology had been used more frequently by stroke patients for information searching, and reminders in comparison to non-stroke participants.…”

“…Mobile technology had been used more frequently by stroke patients for information searching, and reminders in comparison to nonstroke participants. 25 In 5 studies, 14,20,24,37,73 a mobile technology was used to quantify quality of movement and provide feedback to augment upper limb rehabilitation, and improve functional mobility in stroke patients remotely from home. The phone-guided home exercise programmes were also reported as an effective method of upper limb rehabilitation following stroke.…”

Perceived Facilitators and Barriers for Actual Arm Use during Everyday Activities in Community Dwelling Individuals with Chronic Stroke

“…The presence and actions of others (Context domain), were both positive and negative for actual arm use. The literature on the role of social support in stroke rehabilitation supports this mixed result [ 48 , 49 , 50 ]. Previous research indicates that clinicians and caregivers can be key sources of emotional support that greatly benefit UE recovery [ 17 , 21 , 23 ], as reflected by our participants.…”

Stroke Recovery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Position Paper on Recommendations for Rehabilitation

“…77 Nonetheless, technology to support telehealth services after stroke is becoming ubiquitous as the population continues to own smartphones and use applications frequently throughout the day. 69,78 In multiple studies, remote telehealth services have proven easy to use, have used less resources (eg, transportation, time off from work), and have been well received by patients, caregivers, and clinical staff under the appropriate circumstances. 79,80 Whether in person or virtual, support to be encouraged includes stroke rehabilitation therapies, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, physical activity, and preserving social networks.…”