We aim to identify themes related to a stroke survivor’s experience with therapy (physical, occupational, speech, behavioral) and how it pertains to physical wellbeing. 

Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States; 15–30% of stroke survivors have severe disability, and nearly 75% have some degree of dysfunction. Although there is ample quantitative research regarding post-stroke disability there is extremely limited research exploring the subjective experience of physical wellbeing among stroke survivors. 

This is a multi-center mixed methods study of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) survivors or their caregivers who participate in virtual focus groups. Using structured interview guides, participants discuss aspects of wellbeing. Sessions are recorded on Zoom and transcribed using NVivo software. Using the framework method analysis, a comprehensive codebook was developed, and thematic findings were compared and reconciled to ensure consistency and accuracy.

Eleven participants attended the physical wellbeing sessions (average age 60 years old, 36% Male). Four key themes related to participants' experience with therapy and physical wellbeing were identified: 

  Education: Stronger need for education regarding the importance of specific exercises and consequences for not doing them.

  Personalization: Necessity of personalized therapy approaches.

  Prioritizing: Importance of being given certain exercises to focus on and feeling overwhelmed by extensive lists.

  Motivators: Intrinsic motivators (family) and extrinsic motivators (ability to drive) kept participants engaged in therapy and encouraged perseverance through recovery.

This study emphasizes the significance of therapy, as it relates to the physical wellbeing for stroke survivors. More tailored programs, with specific and personalized education were emphasized. Future studies are needed to better understand how to effectively leverage therapies to improve patient outcomes.