Role of Social Support and Technology Interventions in Exercise Adherence among Older Adults with Stroke: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Stroke is a major cause of disability among older adults, and exercise is a critical component of poststroke rehabilitation. However, exercise adherence among stroke survivors is often low, leading to reduced quality of life and functional outcomes. This narrative review aims to explore the types and effectiveness of social support and technology interventions in promoting exercise adherence and improving health outcomes among older adults with stroke. The studies included in this review were relevant (original articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses) and reported on exercise adherence, social support, and technology within the context of older adults with stroke. The studies extracted for this narrative review were research articles published from 2010 till date. Electronic databases were searched to identify relevant studies. Our findings report that group-based exercise programs are more effective social support interventions for long-term exercise adherence than home-based individual programs for older adults. Technology, particularly remote monitoring devices and platforms, is also been effective in improving engagement and adherence to exercise programs, leading to better functional outcomes and enhanced quality of life for older adults with stroke. In conclusion, social support and technology are effective strategies for promoting exercise adherence in post-stroke older adults. However, further research is needed to identify how best to complement social support approaches with technology tools in clinical practice for optimal outcomes. Through these strategies healthcare professionals can improve functional outcomes and enhance the quality of life for stroke survivors.

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