Article

PURPOSE: To describe patient perspectives of aerobic exercise during inpatient
stroke rehabilitation, including their self-efficacy and beliefs towards
exercise, as well as their perceptions of barriers. METHOD: A survey was
conducted at three Canadian rehabilitation centres to evaluate individuals' (N = 33) self-efficacy and outcome expectations for exercise. In addition, patient
perceptions of other people recovering from stroke, social support, and aerobic
exercise as part of rehabilitation were assessed.
RESULTS: Thirty-two people
completed the survey. Of these, 97% were willing to participate in aerobic
exercise 5.9 +/- 8.8 days after admission to inpatient rehabilitation. While
outcome expectations for exercise were high, participants reported lower
self-efficacy for exercise. Patients reported barriers related to the ability to
perform exercise (other health problems (i.e., arthritis), not being able to
follow instructions and physical impairments) more often than safety concerns
(fear of falling). The lack of support from a spouse and family were commonly
identified, as was a lack of information on how to perform aerobic exercise.
CONCLUSION: Patients with stroke are willing to participate in aerobic exercise
within a week after admission to inpatient rehabilitation. However, they perceive
a lack of ability to perform aerobic exercise, social support from family and
information as barriers. Implications for rehabilitation Aerobic exercise is
recognized as part of comprehensive stroke rehabilitation. There is a need to
better understand patient perspectives to develop and implement more effective
interventions early after stroke. Patients lack confidence in their ability to
overcome barriers early after stroke. Patients are concerned with their ability
to perform exercise, fall risk, lack of support from a spouse and family, and
limited information on aerobic exercise. There is a need to reinforce education
with practical experience in structured aerobic exercise programs that show
patients and caregivers how to manage disability and complex health needs.

Langue : ANGLAIS