Built environments to support rehabilitation for people with stroke from the hospital to the home (B-Sure): Protocol for a mixed-method participatory co- design study

Abstract

Background While the global trend is to shift rehabilitation closer to people's homes, the role of the non-hospital environment in stroke recovery has been understudied. This unique project aims to address this gap, understanding its crucial to successfully transition health services to local settings. We intend to develop models of built environments that enhance stroke rehabilitation and everyday activities, encouraging a 'taking charge' approach for persons with stroke. Methods and analysis This mixed-method project proceeds in three phases. Phase one identifies rehabilitation-supportive environmental factors. Phase two co-designs prototypes based on these findings, with the third phase evaluating the prototypes. Research methods include literature review, concept mapping, stakeholder interviews, prototype development, and testing. Quantitative data will be processed using multidimensional scaling, hierarchical cluster analysis, and descriptive statistics, while qualitative data will be subjected to content analysis. Location analyses will incorporate qualitative GIS data models. Discussion We seek to determine how supportive environments can facilitate patients' control over their rehabilitation process, daily activities, and recovery goals. This 'taking charge' approach is key to bringing care closer to home. By co-designing with multiple stakeholders, we aim for rapid solution implementation. The project's outcomes may extend to other frail or older individuals post-hospital stay in Sweden and elsewhere. Impact This groundbreaking project encourages key stakeholder collaboration to explore how new environments can expedite the transition to local healthcare. It also entails co-designing and testing new conceptual models of environments to promote health and well-being in post-stroke individuals.